Vacations can be exciting and stressful at the same time. The experience of having some time off from work, to just relax and enjoy yourself is made stressful by&nbsp;the arrangements — the stay, the food and what you'll wear in particular.

Anywhere you're travelling to hotels, bed and breakfasts, motels take care of the first two things, but the third thing for many of us remains a bother. To make it easier and also help the planet, Japan Airlines has introduced a year-long pilot of a service that provides its passengers the ease of booking a selection of clothes. Here's how it works.

<h2>No stress to shop or pack</h2>

For passengers travelling by Japan's flagship carrier, their vacations can now include the option to rent a selection of clothes. As per a BBC report, they can choose various options, including clothing type, season, style, and pickup and return dates.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/talk-about-keen-ear-dogs-can-listen-to-hooman-chatter-even-when-its-snoozing-finds-study-635361">Talk about keen ear! Dogs can listen to hooman chatter even when snoozing, finds study</a>

Users will receive their selected clothes at their hotel upon arrival. This service will only cost them about $34 to $48 for the rental period.

The service, called 'Any Wear, Anywhere,' started in July of this year and will run till August 2024.

Miho Moriya, who works for Sumitomo, the Japanese company handling reservations, deliveries, and laundering, came up with the idea. She says that what inspired her to come with this was her own dread about luggage.

"I love travelling and I've been to many foreign countries, but I've always dreaded dragging around luggage or doing laundry abroad," she said.

Moriya says it took "many tries" to find an airline that would support her idea, and once it got approved, the implementation was pushed back due to the pandemic. Over time, she hopes to expand this service to other airlines within the OneWorld Alliance and eventually worldwide, contributing to sustainable travel practices.

<h2>How would it help the planet?</h2>

To begin with, it should help cut down on holiday shopping. Many people tend to shop, especially for their vacations. These clothes often end up sitting in their wardrobes once the holiday is over.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-sleeping-late-at-night-study-warns-about-major-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-in-night-owls-635588">Sleeping late at night? Study warns about major risk of type 2 diabetes in night owls</a>

Clothes under the Any wear, Anywhere service are either pre-owned or sourced from company overstock. Furthermore, they will be cleaned and reused, which helps make the service sustainable.

Additionally, with travellers leaving their luggage at home, the aircraft will be lighter and thus help save on fuel and emissions.

This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions by lowering the weight carried on JAL's aeroplanes. It is estimated that saving about 22 pounds (10 kg) in luggage equates to approximately 16.5 pounds (7.5 kg) saved in emissions. 
&nbsp; 
As per CNN, reducing weight is a proven way to save fuel and carbon emissions. Previously, Qantas airlines redesigned its tableware for first and business class to be about 11 per cent lighter. This move, as per the company, helped it start saving 1.1 million pounds (535 metric tonnes) of fuel per year.&nbsp;

Vacations can be exciting and stressful at the same time. The experience of having some time off from work, to just relax and enjoy yourself is made stressful by the arrangements — the stay, the food and what you'll wear in particular.

Vacations can be exciting and stressful at the same time. The experience of having some time off from work, to just relax and enjoy yourself is made stressful by the arrangements — the stay, the food and what you'll wear in particular. Anywhere you're travelling to hotels, bed and breakfasts, motels take care of the first two things, but the third thing for many of us remains a bother. To make it easier and also help the planet, Japan Airlines has introduced a year-long pilot of a service that provides its passengers the ease of booking a selection of clothes. Here's how it works. No stress to shop or pack For passengers travelling by Japan's flagship carrier, their vacations can now include the option to rent a selection of clothes. As per a BBC report, they can choose various options, including clothing type, season, style, and pickup and return dates. Also read | Talk about keen ear! Dogs can listen to hooman chatter even when snoozing, finds study Users will receive their selected clothes at their hotel upon arrival. This service will only cost them about $34 to $48 for the rental period. The service, called 'Any Wear, Anywhere,' started in July of this year and will run till August 2024. Miho Moriya, who works for Sumitomo, the Japanese company handling reservations, deliveries, and laundering, came up with the idea. She says that what inspired her to come with this was her own dread about luggage. "I love travelling and I've been to many foreign countries, but I've always dreaded dragging around luggage or doing laundry abroad," she said. Moriya says it took "many tries" to find an airline that would support her idea, and once it got approved, the implementation was pushed back due to the pandemic. Over time, she hopes to expand this service to other airlines within the OneWorld Alliance and eventually worldwide, contributing to sustainable travel practices. How would it help the planet? To begin with, it should help cut down on holiday shopping. Many people tend to shop, especially for their vacations. These clothes often end up sitting in their wardrobes once the holiday is over. Also read | Sleeping late at night? Study warns about major risk of type 2 diabetes in night owls Clothes under the Any wear, Anywhere service are either pre-owned or sourced from company overstock. Furthermore, they will be cleaned and reused, which helps make the service sustainable. Additionally, with travellers leaving their luggage at home, the aircraft will be lighter and thus help save on fuel and emissions. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions by lowering the weight carried on JAL's aeroplanes. It is estimated that saving about 22 pounds (10 kg) in luggage equates to approximately 16.5 pounds (7.5 kg) saved in emissions. As per CNN, reducing weight is a proven way to save fuel and carbon emissions. Previously, Qantas airlines redesigned its tableware for first and business class to be about 11 per cent lighter. This move, as per the company, helped it start saving 1.1 million pounds (535 metric tonnes) of fuel per year.

Japan Airlines is asking passengers to travel without clothes. Here's why

The Tata group on May 4 initiated the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as Vistara became the first airline in India to successfully operate a wide-body commercial domestic flight from Delhi to Mumbai using a blend of 17 per cent&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;to 83 per cent conventional jet fuel.

AirAsia India, a low-cost subsidiary of Air India, followed suit, operating the Pune-Delhi sector on May 19 using an indigenously-manufactured&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;blend.

Upon receiving the AirAsia flight at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, said, “This would be the first domestic commercial passenger flight with&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;blending of up to one per cent in demonstration mode.”

What is&nbsp;SAF?

SAF&nbsp;is a type of biofuel that is used to power aircraft. Its chemical and physical properties are identical to that of conventional jet fuel, albeit with a significantly lower carbon footprint.&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;is made by using feedstocks consisting of various material such as cooking oil, municipal waste, agricultural residue, plants, and waste gasses.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the use of&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;can significantly bring down carbon dioxide emissions by about 80 per cent. Additionally,&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;could potentially stabilise fuel prices in the aviation sector, making it easier for airlines to budget and predict their operating expenses.

Targets set by aviation regulators

As aviation regulatory bodies push forth their sustainability goals to lower emissions, Puri said that one per cent&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;will be mandatory for domestic airlines by 2025. He further added that 140 million litres of biofuels are required to produce one per cent&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;mixed with jet fuel. If there are greater volumes of biofuels available, the mandate for&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;might increase to four or five per cent.

Meanwhile in the US, the Biden administration is targeting 100 per cent use of&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;by 2050. The EU on the other hand, instructs fuel suppliers to ensure that fuel with two per cent&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;in 2025 is supplied to all European Union (EU) airports. Subsequently, the supply is to increase to six per cent in 2030, 20 per cent in 2035 and steadily to 70 per cent in 2050.

Current landscape and the future

According to a report by the European Union Aviation&nbsp;Safety Agency (EASA), with a supply of less than 0.05 per cent of the overall jet fuel demand in 2020, the&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;industry is still in its early stages of development.&nbsp;

Currently, the EU’s greatest possible&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;production capacity is only 0.24 million tonnes, or 10 per cent of the&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;needed to fulfil the proposed mandate by 2030. The 2030 mandate level is high but achievable given the announcements of major capacity additions from these current&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;providers and the production from new market entrants.

In the Indian context, a press release from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said, “India has feedstock for potential production of 19 to 24 million tons of&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;per year, whereas the estimated maximum requirement of&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;in India, considering 50 per cent blend, is around eight to ten million tons per year by 2030”.

What are aircraft manufacturers doing?

According to multiple reports by aviation news website Simple Flying, major aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing have aircraft that can fly with a 50 per cent blend of&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;and conventional jet fuel. Presently, aircraft flying with 100 per cent&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;are in the testing phase with Airbus conducting such tests on their A350 and A321 aircraft.

At the Airbus Summit, Chief Technical Officer, Sabine Klauke was quoted as saying, “All Airbus aircraft today are certified to fly with a 50 per cent&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;blend. We have a clear ambition to achieve certification for 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel for our fleets by 2030. So, if we look, what is used today,&nbsp;SAF&nbsp;represents maybe 0.03 per cent of the fuel which is used in civil aviation, and that's for sure. We have a clear plan leading to 2030.”

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The Tata group on May 4 initiated the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as Vistara became the first airline in India to successfully operate a wide-body commercial domestic flight from Delhi to Mumbai using a blend of 17 per cent SAF to 83 per cent conventional jet fuel.

The Tata group on May 4 initiated the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), as Vistara became the first airline in India to successfully operate a wide-body commercial domestic flight from Delhi to Mumbai using a blend of 17 per cent SAF to 83 per cent conventional jet fuel. AirAsia India, a low-cost subsidiary of Air India, followed suit, operating the Pune-Delhi sector on May 19 using an indigenously-manufactured SAF blend. Upon receiving the AirAsia flight at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, Hardeep Singh Puri, the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, said, “This would be the first domestic commercial passenger flight with SAF blending of up to one per cent in demonstration mode.” What is SAF? SAF is a type of biofuel that is used to power aircraft. Its chemical and physical properties are identical to that of conventional jet fuel, albeit with a significantly lower carbon footprint. SAF is made by using feedstocks consisting of various material such as cooking oil, municipal waste, agricultural residue, plants, and waste gasses. According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the use of SAF can significantly bring down carbon dioxide emissions by about 80 per cent. Additionally, SAF could potentially stabilise fuel prices in the aviation sector, making it easier for airlines to budget and predict their operating expenses. Targets set by aviation regulators As aviation regulatory bodies push forth their sustainability goals to lower emissions, Puri said that one per cent SAF will be mandatory for domestic airlines by 2025. He further added that 140 million litres of biofuels are required to produce one per cent SAF mixed with jet fuel. If there are greater volumes of biofuels available, the mandate for SAF might increase to four or five per cent. Meanwhile in the US, the Biden administration is targeting 100 per cent use of SAF by 2050. The EU on the other hand, instructs fuel suppliers to ensure that fuel with two per cent SAF in 2025 is supplied to all European Union (EU) airports. Subsequently, the supply is to increase to six per cent in 2030, 20 per cent in 2035 and steadily to 70 per cent in 2050. Current landscape and the future According to a report by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), with a supply of less than 0.05 per cent of the overall jet fuel demand in 2020, the SAF industry is still in its early stages of development. Currently, the EU’s greatest possible SAF production capacity is only 0.24 million tonnes, or 10 per cent of the SAF needed to fulfil the proposed mandate by 2030. The 2030 mandate level is high but achievable given the announcements of major capacity additions from these current SAF providers and the production from new market entrants. In the Indian context, a press release from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said, “India has feedstock for potential production of 19 to 24 million tons of SAF per year, whereas the estimated maximum requirement of SAF in India, considering 50 per cent blend, is around eight to ten million tons per year by 2030”. What are aircraft manufacturers doing? According to multiple reports by aviation news website Simple Flying, major aircraft manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing have aircraft that can fly with a 50 per cent blend of SAF and conventional jet fuel. Presently, aircraft flying with 100 per cent SAF are in the testing phase with Airbus conducting such tests on their A350 and A321 aircraft. At the Airbus Summit, Chief Technical Officer, Sabine Klauke was quoted as saying, “All Airbus aircraft today are certified to fly with a 50 per cent SAF blend. We have a clear ambition to achieve certification for 100 per cent sustainable aviation fuel for our fleets by 2030. So, if we look, what is used today, SAF represents maybe 0.03 per cent of the fuel which is used in civil aviation, and that's for sure. We have a clear plan leading to 2030.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sustainable aviation fuel: The fuel of the future?

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force with the potential to reshape industries and societies across the globe. Among its myriad applications, AI is making significant inroads in the realms of sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. This convergence of AI and sustainable practices presents a dual-edged sword, offering remarkable opportunities for positive change while posing formidable challenges that demand careful navigation.

Watch | AI-powered robot in Mecca's grand mosque

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ai-powered-robot-in-meccas-grand-mosque-625437/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Unveiling opportunities

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Efficiency and Resource Optimisation: One of the most compelling benefits of AI in the context of sustainability and ESG is its ability to optimise resource utilisation. AI-powered algorithms can analyze vast datasets to identify inefficiencies in energy consumption, water usage, and supply chains. This enables companies to streamline operations and reduce waste, leading to lower costs and a reduced environmental footprint.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Renewable Energy Management: AI has revolutionized the management of renewable energy sources. By predicting fluctuations in energy supply and demand, AI enables the seamless integration of solar, wind, and other renewable sources into the power grid. This not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also enhances energy efficiency and resilience.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Climate Change Mitigation: AI's predictive capabilities are invaluable in addressing climate change. Advanced climate models fueled by AI can forecast the impacts of rising temperatures, helping governments and businesses formulate adaptive strategies. AI can also aid in developing climate-friendly technologies, such as carbon capture and sequestration, to combat greenhouse gas emissions.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;ESG Data Analysis: ESG considerations have become paramount for investors seeking sustainable investment opportunities. AI-driven data analytics enable companies to gather, assess, and report ESG metrics accurately and efficiently. This transparency builds trust and encourages responsible practices, fostering a positive corporate image.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Natural Resource Management: AI assists in monitoring and conserving natural resources, including forests, oceans, and wildlife. Through satellite imagery analysis and machine learning, AI can detect illegal logging, track deforestation rates, and monitor endangered species' habitats, contributing to biodiversity preservation.

<h2>Navigating challenges</h2>

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Data Privacy and Bias: As AI algorithms rely on large datasets, concerns about data privacy and bias emerge. Sensitive environmental and social data, if mishandled, can compromise individual privacy and perpetuate inequalities. Addressing these challenges requires stringent data protection measures and ethical AI development practices.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Job Displacement and Workforce Transition: While AI enhances operational efficiency, it also raises concerns about job displacement in certain sectors. The transition to AI-driven systems may leave certain workers unemployed. Effective strategies for upskilling and reskilling are essential to ensure a just transition and a skilled workforce that can navigate the AI-powered landscape.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Energy Consumption: Paradoxically, the computational intensity of AI models can lead to increased energy consumption. Training sophisticated AI models requires substantial computing power, potentially contributing to carbon emissions. Developing energy-efficient AI hardware and algorithms is crucial to mitigate this environmental impact.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ethical Dilemmas: AI decisions often lack human intuition, raising ethical questions in critical areas like resource allocation, environmental conservation, and disaster response. Striking the right balance between automated decision-making and human oversight is essential to avoid unintended negative consequences.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Complexity and Accessibility: Implementing AI for sustainability and ESG involves complex technologies that may not be accessible to all organizations, particularly small businesses and developing economies. Bridging the technological divide and democratising AI tools will be pivotal in ensuring widespread benefits.

<h2>AI and ESG Reporting</h2>

AI can indeed play a significant role in improving company sustainability disclosures. Sustainability disclosures involve reporting a company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and impact on&nbsp;stakeholders, including investors, customers, employees, and the general public. AI technologies can enhance sustainability disclosures in several ways:

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Data Collection and Analysis: AI can efficiently gather and analyse large volumes of data from various sources, such as financial reports, operational data, supply chain information, and social media. This can help companies provide more comprehensive and accurate sustainability information.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Predictive Analytics: AI can use historical data to make predictions about future sustainability trends, risks, and opportunities. This can assist companies in disclosing forward-looking information that reflects their commitment to long-term sustainability goals.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP technology can be used to analyse text-based information, such as corporate sustainability reports and stakeholder communications. AI-powered NLP can identify patterns, sentiments, and key information to ensure that sustainability disclosures are clear, relevant, and aligned with stakeholder interests.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Performance Measurement and Reporting: AI can track and measure a company's sustainability performance against its goals and industry benchmarks. It can generate real-time reports and visualisations that enhance transparency and facilitate better decision-making.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Supply Chain Transparency: AI can help trace the environmental and social impact of products and materials across the supply chain. This transparency can lead to more accurate and detailed disclosures about a company's supply chain practices.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Risk Assessment: AI can identify potential ESG risks that may not be immediately apparent, allowing companies to address these issues and report on their efforts to mitigate risks.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Automated Reporting: AI-driven automation can streamline the reporting process, reducing manual effort and human errors. This can lead to more consistent and timely sustainability disclosures.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Materiality Analysis: AI can assist in identifying the most relevant ESG issues for a company based on data analysis and stakeholder engagement. This ensures that disclosures focus on the topics that matter most to stakeholders.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Enhanced Communication: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can engage with stakeholders and answer sustainability-related queries in real time, enhancing communication and transparency.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Scenario Analysis: AI can simulate various scenarios to assess the potential impact of different decisions on a company's sustainability performance. This can aid in disclosing information about the company's resilience and adaptability.

The accuracy and quality of AI-generated insights depend on the quality of data inputs and the design of AI algorithms. Companies must also consider ethical considerations, data privacy, and potential biases when implementing AI solutions for sustainability disclosures.

<h2>A collaborative path forward</h2>

To harness the transformative power of AI while minimising its potential drawbacks, a collaborative approach is imperative.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Public-Private Partnerships: Governments, industries, and academia must collaborate to establish frameworks that encourage responsible AI adoption. Regulatory guidelines, standards, and incentives can foster innovation while safeguarding societal interests.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ethical AI Development: Developers and data scientists must prioritize ethical considerations throughout the AI lifecycle. This includes data anonymisation, bias mitigation, and robust accountability mechanisms to ensure AI technologies align with sustainability and ESG goals.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and affected individuals, is crucial to understanding the nuanced implications of AI applications. Transparent and inclusive decision-making processes can avert potential conflicts and unintended consequences.

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Investment in Research: Continued research into AI's impact on sustainability and ESG is essential. This involves studying the long-term effects of AI adoption, developing innovative solutions, and refining existing technologies to align with evolving environmental and societal needs.

The integration of AI into sustainability and ESG practices presents a dual landscape of opportunities and challenges. While AI holds immense potential to drive positive change through resource optimisation, renewable energy management, climate action, and transparent ESG reporting, it also demands vigilant efforts to address data privacy, bias, ethical concerns, and accessibility barriers. By fostering collaboration, ethical development, stakeholder engagement, and sustained research, society can chart a path forward where AI serves as a powerful tool in building a more sustainable and equitable future.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force with the potential to reshape industries and societies across the globe.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force with the potential to reshape industries and societies across the globe. Among its myriad applications, AI is making significant inroads in the realms of sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. This convergence of AI and sustainable practices presents a dual-edged sword, offering remarkable opportunities for positive change while posing formidable challenges that demand careful navigation. Watch | AI-powered robot in Mecca's grand mosque × Unveiling opportunities • Efficiency and Resource Optimisation: One of the most compelling benefits of AI in the context of sustainability and ESG is its ability to optimise resource utilisation. AI-powered algorithms can analyze vast datasets to identify inefficiencies in energy consumption, water usage, and supply chains. This enables companies to streamline operations and reduce waste, leading to lower costs and a reduced environmental footprint. • Renewable Energy Management: AI has revolutionized the management of renewable energy sources. By predicting fluctuations in energy supply and demand, AI enables the seamless integration of solar, wind, and other renewable sources into the power grid. This not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also enhances energy efficiency and resilience. • Climate Change Mitigation: AI's predictive capabilities are invaluable in addressing climate change. Advanced climate models fueled by AI can forecast the impacts of rising temperatures, helping governments and businesses formulate adaptive strategies. AI can also aid in developing climate-friendly technologies, such as carbon capture and sequestration, to combat greenhouse gas emissions. • ESG Data Analysis: ESG considerations have become paramount for investors seeking sustainable investment opportunities. AI-driven data analytics enable companies to gather, assess, and report ESG metrics accurately and efficiently. This transparency builds trust and encourages responsible practices, fostering a positive corporate image. • Natural Resource Management: AI assists in monitoring and conserving natural resources, including forests, oceans, and wildlife. Through satellite imagery analysis and machine learning, AI can detect illegal logging, track deforestation rates, and monitor endangered species' habitats, contributing to biodiversity preservation. Navigating challenges • Data Privacy and Bias: As AI algorithms rely on large datasets, concerns about data privacy and bias emerge. Sensitive environmental and social data, if mishandled, can compromise individual privacy and perpetuate inequalities. Addressing these challenges requires stringent data protection measures and ethical AI development practices. • Job Displacement and Workforce Transition: While AI enhances operational efficiency, it also raises concerns about job displacement in certain sectors. The transition to AI-driven systems may leave certain workers unemployed. Effective strategies for upskilling and reskilling are essential to ensure a just transition and a skilled workforce that can navigate the AI-powered landscape. • Energy Consumption: Paradoxically, the computational intensity of AI models can lead to increased energy consumption. Training sophisticated AI models requires substantial computing power, potentially contributing to carbon emissions. Developing energy-efficient AI hardware and algorithms is crucial to mitigate this environmental impact. • Ethical Dilemmas: AI decisions often lack human intuition, raising ethical questions in critical areas like resource allocation, environmental conservation, and disaster response. Striking the right balance between automated decision-making and human oversight is essential to avoid unintended negative consequences. • Complexity and Accessibility: Implementing AI for sustainability and ESG involves complex technologies that may not be accessible to all organizations, particularly small businesses and developing economies. Bridging the technological divide and democratising AI tools will be pivotal in ensuring widespread benefits. AI and ESG Reporting AI can indeed play a significant role in improving company sustainability disclosures. Sustainability disclosures involve reporting a company's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and impact on stakeholders, including investors, customers, employees, and the general public. AI technologies can enhance sustainability disclosures in several ways: • Data Collection and Analysis: AI can efficiently gather and analyse large volumes of data from various sources, such as financial reports, operational data, supply chain information, and social media. This can help companies provide more comprehensive and accurate sustainability information. • Predictive Analytics: AI can use historical data to make predictions about future sustainability trends, risks, and opportunities. This can assist companies in disclosing forward-looking information that reflects their commitment to long-term sustainability goals. • Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP technology can be used to analyse text-based information, such as corporate sustainability reports and stakeholder communications. AI-powered NLP can identify patterns, sentiments, and key information to ensure that sustainability disclosures are clear, relevant, and aligned with stakeholder interests. • Performance Measurement and Reporting: AI can track and measure a company's sustainability performance against its goals and industry benchmarks. It can generate real-time reports and visualisations that enhance transparency and facilitate better decision-making. • Supply Chain Transparency: AI can help trace the environmental and social impact of products and materials across the supply chain. This transparency can lead to more accurate and detailed disclosures about a company's supply chain practices. • Risk Assessment: AI can identify potential ESG risks that may not be immediately apparent, allowing companies to address these issues and report on their efforts to mitigate risks. • Automated Reporting: AI-driven automation can streamline the reporting process, reducing manual effort and human errors. This can lead to more consistent and timely sustainability disclosures. • Materiality Analysis: AI can assist in identifying the most relevant ESG issues for a company based on data analysis and stakeholder engagement. This ensures that disclosures focus on the topics that matter most to stakeholders. • Enhanced Communication: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can engage with stakeholders and answer sustainability-related queries in real time, enhancing communication and transparency. • Scenario Analysis: AI can simulate various scenarios to assess the potential impact of different decisions on a company's sustainability performance. This can aid in disclosing information about the company's resilience and adaptability. The accuracy and quality of AI-generated insights depend on the quality of data inputs and the design of AI algorithms. Companies must also consider ethical considerations, data privacy, and potential biases when implementing AI solutions for sustainability disclosures. A collaborative path forward To harness the transformative power of AI while minimising its potential drawbacks, a collaborative approach is imperative. • Public-Private Partnerships: Governments, industries, and academia must collaborate to establish frameworks that encourage responsible AI adoption. Regulatory guidelines, standards, and incentives can foster innovation while safeguarding societal interests. • Ethical AI Development: Developers and data scientists must prioritize ethical considerations throughout the AI lifecycle. This includes data anonymisation, bias mitigation, and robust accountability mechanisms to ensure AI technologies align with sustainability and ESG goals. • Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and affected individuals, is crucial to understanding the nuanced implications of AI applications. Transparent and inclusive decision-making processes can avert potential conflicts and unintended consequences. • Investment in Research: Continued research into AI's impact on sustainability and ESG is essential. This involves studying the long-term effects of AI adoption, developing innovative solutions, and refining existing technologies to align with evolving environmental and societal needs. The integration of AI into sustainability and ESG practices presents a dual landscape of opportunities and challenges. While AI holds immense potential to drive positive change through resource optimisation, renewable energy management, climate action, and transparent ESG reporting, it also demands vigilant efforts to address data privacy, bias, ethical concerns, and accessibility barriers. By fostering collaboration, ethical development, stakeholder engagement, and sustained research, society can chart a path forward where AI serves as a powerful tool in building a more sustainable and equitable future. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

The impact of AI on sustainability and ESG: Seizing opportunities and overcoming challenges

The European Commission achieved a significant milestone on July 31, 2023, by adopting the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), a crucial step towards implementing the EU's upcoming Corporate Sustainable Reporting Directive (CSRD). These standards will require companies to report on sustainability-related impacts, opportunities, and risks. The CSRD is set to take effect from the beginning of 2024, and reporting will commence for some companies during the 2024 financial year.

While the announcement was welcomed by many, sustainability-focused investor groups raised concerns about the EU Commission's decision to ease certain aspects of the new rules, particularly the removal of the mandatory nature of many sustainability disclosures, which remained in the adopted ESRS. The CSRD aims to update the current EU sustainability reporting framework, the 2014 Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), and will significantly expand the number of companies required to provide sustainability disclosures from around 12,000 to over 50,000. The new rules will also introduce more detailed reporting requirements on environmental impacts, human rights, social standards, and sustainability-related risks.

The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) was tasked by the European Commission in June 2020 to develop new EU sustainability reporting standards. In November 2022, EFRAG submitted its final ESRS draft, making modifications to reduce administrative burdens on companies and cut the number of reporting requirements in half.

In June 2023, the European Commission released a proposed version of the final ESRS, introducing its own changes. Notably, the Commission proposed that all disclosure requirements, except for a set of general disclosures, undergo materiality assessments. This would allow companies to focus reporting on sustainability factors they consider significant to their businesses. The changes also involved phasing in certain reporting requirements, such as Scope 3 emissions and biodiversity-related topics, as well as 'own workforce' disclosures for companies with fewer than 750 employees in their first year of applying the standards.

However, investment and finance groups expressed concerns, stating that the amendments would impact their ability to obtain crucial sustainability-related information required for investment decisions. It would also hinder their ability to meet reporting requirements, including those under the EU's Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR).

In response to investor concerns, the Commission published a Q&amp;A following the adoption of the ESRS. It clarified that 'disclosure requirements subject to materiality are not voluntary' and emphasised that information must be disclosed if deemed material. The materiality assessment process would also be subject to external assurance. Companies deciding not to report on climate change, for instance, would need to provide a detailed explanation for their decision due to the widespread and systemic impacts of climate change across the economy.

The Commission also highlighted the high level of interoperability between the ESRS and other sustainability reporting standards from the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). Companies required to report under ESRS on climate change would largely report the same information as those using the ISSB standard on climate-related disclosures.

With the adoption of the new sustainability reporting rules, the Commission's ESRS delegated act will be reviewed by the EU Parliament and Council during a two-month scrutiny period. Both bodies have the authority to reject the act but cannot amend it.

Once implemented, companies previously subject to the NFRD and large non-EU listed companies with more than 500 employees will need to start reporting under ESRS for the financial year 2024, with the first reports issued in 2025. Other large companies will begin reporting a year later. Listed SMEs, including non-EU-listed SMEs, will start issuing their first ESRS sustainability statements in 2027, with the option to opt-out for up to two years. Additionally, non-EU companies generating over €150 million of revenue annually in the EU and having a branch in the EU with revenue over €40 million or a subsidiary that is a large company or a listed SME will begin reporting from the financial year 2028 with the first reports due in 2029.

Mairead McGuinness, Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability, and Capital Markets Union, praised the ambitious standards, emphasizing their role in supporting the EU's sustainable finance agenda. As per her, the standards strike a balance between minimising the reporting burden on companies and enabling them to showcase their efforts to meet the Green Deal Agenda, providing access to sustainable finance opportunities.

The European Commission achieved a significant milestone on July 31, 2023, by adopting the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), a crucial step towards implementing the EU's upcoming Corporate Sustainable Reporting Directive (CSRD).

The European Commission achieved a significant milestone on July 31, 2023, by adopting the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), a crucial step towards implementing the EU's upcoming Corporate Sustainable Reporting Directive (CSRD). These standards will require companies to report on sustainability-related impacts, opportunities, and risks. The CSRD is set to take effect from the beginning of 2024, and reporting will commence for some companies during the 2024 financial year. While the announcement was welcomed by many, sustainability-focused investor groups raised concerns about the EU Commission's decision to ease certain aspects of the new rules, particularly the removal of the mandatory nature of many sustainability disclosures, which remained in the adopted ESRS. The CSRD aims to update the current EU sustainability reporting framework, the 2014 Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD), and will significantly expand the number of companies required to provide sustainability disclosures from around 12,000 to over 50,000. The new rules will also introduce more detailed reporting requirements on environmental impacts, human rights, social standards, and sustainability-related risks. The European Financial Reporting Advisory Group (EFRAG) was tasked by the European Commission in June 2020 to develop new EU sustainability reporting standards. In November 2022, EFRAG submitted its final ESRS draft, making modifications to reduce administrative burdens on companies and cut the number of reporting requirements in half. In June 2023, the European Commission released a proposed version of the final ESRS, introducing its own changes. Notably, the Commission proposed that all disclosure requirements, except for a set of general disclosures, undergo materiality assessments. This would allow companies to focus reporting on sustainability factors they consider significant to their businesses. The changes also involved phasing in certain reporting requirements, such as Scope 3 emissions and biodiversity-related topics, as well as 'own workforce' disclosures for companies with fewer than 750 employees in their first year of applying the standards. However, investment and finance groups expressed concerns, stating that the amendments would impact their ability to obtain crucial sustainability-related information required for investment decisions. It would also hinder their ability to meet reporting requirements, including those under the EU's Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). In response to investor concerns, the Commission published a Q&A following the adoption of the ESRS. It clarified that 'disclosure requirements subject to materiality are not voluntary' and emphasised that information must be disclosed if deemed material. The materiality assessment process would also be subject to external assurance. Companies deciding not to report on climate change, for instance, would need to provide a detailed explanation for their decision due to the widespread and systemic impacts of climate change across the economy. The Commission also highlighted the high level of interoperability between the ESRS and other sustainability reporting standards from the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). Companies required to report under ESRS on climate change would largely report the same information as those using the ISSB standard on climate-related disclosures. With the adoption of the new sustainability reporting rules, the Commission's ESRS delegated act will be reviewed by the EU Parliament and Council during a two-month scrutiny period. Both bodies have the authority to reject the act but cannot amend it. Once implemented, companies previously subject to the NFRD and large non-EU listed companies with more than 500 employees will need to start reporting under ESRS for the financial year 2024, with the first reports issued in 2025. Other large companies will begin reporting a year later. Listed SMEs, including non-EU-listed SMEs, will start issuing their first ESRS sustainability statements in 2027, with the option to opt-out for up to two years. Additionally, non-EU companies generating over €150 million of revenue annually in the EU and having a branch in the EU with revenue over €40 million or a subsidiary that is a large company or a listed SME will begin reporting from the financial year 2028 with the first reports due in 2029. Mairead McGuinness, Commissioner for Financial Services, Financial Stability, and Capital Markets Union, praised the ambitious standards, emphasizing their role in supporting the EU's sustainable finance agenda. As per her, the standards strike a balance between minimising the reporting burden on companies and enabling them to showcase their efforts to meet the Green Deal Agenda, providing access to sustainable finance opportunities.

Sustainability reporting gets a makeover: EU unveils bold standards to woo green investors

In a push to become a manufacturing hub, the Indian government is considering Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for domestic manufacturing of chemicals and petrochemicals, MoneyControl reported on Thursday.&nbsp;

“We are in favour of having India becoming a manufacturing hub and, of course, we’ll consider the PLI also for chemicals and petrochemicals,"&nbsp;Indian Finance Minister Nirmala&nbsp;Sitharaman said at&nbsp;the global chemicals and petrochemicals summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The finance minister also emphasised the importance of increasing domestic production to balance out the trade imbalance in the petrochemical and chemical industries.&nbsp;

In 2022–2023, India's combined exports of chemicals and petrochemicals were valued at roughly $9 billion, while imports of similar products were valued at $13.33 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of more than $4 billion.

The PLI scheme was introduced in April 2020 to assist manufacturing in a few chosen industries. Under the scheme, the government provides businesses with incentives based on additional sales of goods produced domestically. It aims to reduce India's reliance on imports and strengthen its industrial capacity.

With a $26 billion incentive outlay, the benefits of this scheme have already expanded to 14 sectors. Among the important industries that have received benefits under the PLI plan are telecommunications, electronics, white goods, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.&nbsp;

Sitharaman pushes for sustainability&nbsp;

Sitharaman also spoke about the rising sustainability concerns in the chemicals and petrochemicals industry regarding, carbon emissions, general pollution, and groundwater contamination.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We should remember that India has set its sights on becoming energy independent by 2047 and achieving net zero [carbon emissions] by 2070," MoneyControl quoted her as saying.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sitharaman said that achieving net zero emissions will require efforts from every industry, including petrochemicals and chemicals. She claimed that India is highly motivated to promote green growth and lower carbon intensity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She advised the industry not to rely on fossil fuels for their upcoming projects as India is expected to add 500 Giga-Watts (GW) of non-fossil energy generation capacity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In a push to become a manufacturing hub, the Indian government is considering Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for domestic manufacturing of chemicals and petrochemicals, MoneyControl reported on Thursday.

In a push to become a manufacturing hub, the Indian government is considering Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for domestic manufacturing of chemicals and petrochemicals, MoneyControl reported on Thursday. “We are in favour of having India becoming a manufacturing hub and, of course, we’ll consider the PLI also for chemicals and petrochemicals," Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said at the global chemicals and petrochemicals summit. The finance minister also emphasised the importance of increasing domestic production to balance out the trade imbalance in the petrochemical and chemical industries. In 2022–2023, India's combined exports of chemicals and petrochemicals were valued at roughly $9 billion, while imports of similar products were valued at $13.33 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of more than $4 billion. The PLI scheme was introduced in April 2020 to assist manufacturing in a few chosen industries. Under the scheme, the government provides businesses with incentives based on additional sales of goods produced domestically. It aims to reduce India's reliance on imports and strengthen its industrial capacity. With a $26 billion incentive outlay, the benefits of this scheme have already expanded to 14 sectors. Among the important industries that have received benefits under the PLI plan are telecommunications, electronics, white goods, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Sitharaman pushes for sustainability Sitharaman also spoke about the rising sustainability concerns in the chemicals and petrochemicals industry regarding, carbon emissions, general pollution, and groundwater contamination. “We should remember that India has set its sights on becoming energy independent by 2047 and achieving net zero [carbon emissions] by 2070," MoneyControl quoted her as saying. Sitharaman said that achieving net zero emissions will require efforts from every industry, including petrochemicals and chemicals. She claimed that India is highly motivated to promote green growth and lower carbon intensity. She advised the industry not to rely on fossil fuels for their upcoming projects as India is expected to add 500 Giga-Watts (GW) of non-fossil energy generation capacity. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India to consider PLI scheme for chemicals and petrochemicals: Nirmala Sitharaman  

India and France have announced a series of agreements to strengthen ties and address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, the two nations, sharing a common vision for the region, have adopted a new Indo-Pacific Roadmap, aiming to ensure stability, sustainable development, and free access to global commons.

Building upon the Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, adopted in 2018, India and France with this new roadmap are committed to working together to secure their economic and security interests. It includes advancing "the rule of international law" and building a "balanced and stable order" in the region, with "respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity," MEA said in a statement. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-prominent-individuals-in-paris-hold-discussions-on-yoga-science-skill-development-and-more-615736">PM Modi meets prominent individuals in Paris; hold discussions on yoga, science, skill development, and more</a>

Highlighting the importance of the Pacific, both countries have pledged to extend their cooperation with the involvement of the French territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia. The French overseas territories in the Indian and Pacific Oceans will play a crucial role in the Indo-Pacific partnership between India and France, the statement read.&nbsp;

<h2>Promoting UN Security Council reform</h2>

India and France also joined hands in advocating for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure better representation and inclusivity. The two nations support the credentials of the G4 countries, including India, to become new permanent members of the Security Council. Additionally, both nations also urged the need for improved representation from Africa among the council's permanent members.&nbsp;

<h2>Science, technology, and academic cooperation</h2>

Recognising the pivotal role of technology in addressing the challenges of the 21st century, India and France have agreed to deepen their cooperation in the fields of science, technological innovation, and academic research. As leading startup and innovation ecosystems in their respective regions, both nations aim to promote research partnerships and essential technologies that contribute to their countries' self-reliance.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-in-france-india-flags-cross-border-terrorism-repeats-call-for-dialogue-to-end-ukraine-war-615740">Modi in France: India flags cross-border terrorism, repeats call for dialogue to end Ukraine war</a>

In the field of health and medicine, India and France have signed a Letter of Intent for Cooperation, which lays the foundation for collaboration in various areas, including digital health, AI for healthcare, medical waste treatment technology, biotechnology, and combating antimicrobial resistance.&nbsp;

Both countries will also focus on health emergency prevention, preparedness, and response, as well as strengthen cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector and digital health technologies.

<h2>Enhancing cybersecurity&nbsp;</h2>

The growing strategic importance of cyberspace in the bilateral relationship between India and France was reaffirmed. Both nations acknowledged the significance of bilateral cyber dialogues and commit to working closely on mutual areas of interest. India and France are dedicated to jointly promoting a peaceful, secure, and open cyberspace, aligning with the Indo-French Roadmap on Cybersecurity and Digital Technology.

<h2>Collaborating for a sustainable future</h2>

India and France committed themselves to cooperating closely in the transition toward a low-carbon economy.&nbsp;

To meet the increasing energy demand driven by India's urbanisation and industrialisation while addressing energy security concerns, the two countries aim to increase their share of clean energy sources. Both nations share the conviction that sustainable solutions in combating climate change include the use of nuclear energy.

Watch | Ukraine continues to demand more weapons and NATO membership

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-continues-to-demand-more-weapons-and-nato-membership-615741/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Moreover, India and France are strengthening their collaboration on promoting a circular economy and integrated waste management in cities. This collaboration focuses on enhancing waste collection and transportation, developing waste-to-wealth solutions, and improving liquid and solid waste management practices.

<h2>Promoting people-to-people ties</h2>

India and France laid emphasis on the importance of people-to-people exchanges and economic ties.&nbsp;

The Partnership Agreement on Migration and Mobility, which came into force in 2021, facilitates the mobility of students, graduates, academics, researchers, professionals, and skilled workers between the two nations.&nbsp;

Both countries aim to enhance tourist flows and simplify visa issuance procedures for the private sector and business community. They have also granted visa exemption for short stays to official passport holders and will assess the effectiveness of this exemption in 2026.&nbsp;Additionally, efforts will be made to promote mutual recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, fostering skilled mobility between India and France.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

India and France have announced a series of agreements to strengthen ties and address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, the two nations, sharing a common vision for the region, have adopted a new Indo-Pacific Roadmap, aiming to ensure stability, sustainable development, and free access to global commons.

India and France have announced a series of agreements to strengthen ties and address the challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, the two nations, sharing a common vision for the region, have adopted a new Indo-Pacific Roadmap, aiming to ensure stability, sustainable development, and free access to global commons. Building upon the Joint Strategic Vision of India-France Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region, adopted in 2018, India and France with this new roadmap are committed to working together to secure their economic and security interests. It includes advancing "the rule of international law" and building a "balanced and stable order" in the region, with "respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity," MEA said in a statement. Also Read | PM Modi meets prominent individuals in Paris; hold discussions on yoga, science, skill development, and more Highlighting the importance of the Pacific, both countries have pledged to extend their cooperation with the involvement of the French territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia. The French overseas territories in the Indian and Pacific Oceans will play a crucial role in the Indo-Pacific partnership between India and France, the statement read. Promoting UN Security Council reform India and France also joined hands in advocating for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure better representation and inclusivity. The two nations support the credentials of the G4 countries, including India, to become new permanent members of the Security Council. Additionally, both nations also urged the need for improved representation from Africa among the council's permanent members. Science, technology, and academic cooperation Recognising the pivotal role of technology in addressing the challenges of the 21st century, India and France have agreed to deepen their cooperation in the fields of science, technological innovation, and academic research. As leading startup and innovation ecosystems in their respective regions, both nations aim to promote research partnerships and essential technologies that contribute to their countries' self-reliance. Also Read | Modi in France: India flags cross-border terrorism, repeats call for dialogue to end Ukraine war In the field of health and medicine, India and France have signed a Letter of Intent for Cooperation, which lays the foundation for collaboration in various areas, including digital health, AI for healthcare, medical waste treatment technology, biotechnology, and combating antimicrobial resistance. Both countries will also focus on health emergency prevention, preparedness, and response, as well as strengthen cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector and digital health technologies. Enhancing cybersecurity The growing strategic importance of cyberspace in the bilateral relationship between India and France was reaffirmed. Both nations acknowledged the significance of bilateral cyber dialogues and commit to working closely on mutual areas of interest. India and France are dedicated to jointly promoting a peaceful, secure, and open cyberspace, aligning with the Indo-French Roadmap on Cybersecurity and Digital Technology. Collaborating for a sustainable future India and France committed themselves to cooperating closely in the transition toward a low-carbon economy. To meet the increasing energy demand driven by India's urbanisation and industrialisation while addressing energy security concerns, the two countries aim to increase their share of clean energy sources. Both nations share the conviction that sustainable solutions in combating climate change include the use of nuclear energy. Watch | Ukraine continues to demand more weapons and NATO membership × Moreover, India and France are strengthening their collaboration on promoting a circular economy and integrated waste management in cities. This collaboration focuses on enhancing waste collection and transportation, developing waste-to-wealth solutions, and improving liquid and solid waste management practices. Promoting people-to-people ties India and France laid emphasis on the importance of people-to-people exchanges and economic ties. The Partnership Agreement on Migration and Mobility, which came into force in 2021, facilitates the mobility of students, graduates, academics, researchers, professionals, and skilled workers between the two nations. Both countries aim to enhance tourist flows and simplify visa issuance procedures for the private sector and business community. They have also granted visa exemption for short stays to official passport holders and will assess the effectiveness of this exemption in 2026. Additionally, efforts will be made to promote mutual recognition of diplomas and professional qualifications, fostering skilled mobility between India and France. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India, France draw up roadmap for balanced and stable order in Asia-Pacific region

In recent years, the concept of responsible investing has gained significant traction in the world of finance. More and more investors are seeking to align their investment portfolios with their personal values and social concerns. However, the term "responsible" can be subjective and open to interpretation. What does it truly mean to be a responsible investor? 
 
Here, I talk about the depths of responsible investing, exploring its various dimensions and shedding light on the true definition of "responsible."

At its core, responsible investing involves integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into the investment decision-making process. ESG factors encompass a wide range of issues, including climate change, human rights, labour standards, corporate governance, and more. Responsible investors aim to generate financial returns while simultaneously creating a positive impact on society and the environment.

The true definition of "responsible" in responsible investing goes beyond simply avoiding investments in industries or companies that have a negative impact. It encompasses a proactive approach that seeks to identify and support companies that are actively working towards sustainable practices and positive social change. Responsible investors not only consider the risks associated with unsustainable practices but also seize opportunities to invest in businesses that are aligned with their values.

One key aspect of responsible investing is engagement. Responsible investors recognise the power of their capital and actively engage with companies to encourage better practices. Through dialogue, voting on shareholder resolutions, and collaboration with other stakeholders, responsible investors seek to influence corporate behaviour in a positive direction. By doing so, they contribute to the long-term sustainability of companies and the broader economy.

Responsible investing also involves robust research and analysis. Investors need to assess the ESG performance of companies and understand the potential risks and opportunities associated with their operations. This requires access to accurate and reliable data on ESG factors. Fortunately, in recent years, there has been a growing availability of ESG data and rating frameworks that enable investors to make informed decisions. By considering these factors, responsible investors can better identify companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices and good governance.

Another important aspect of responsible investing is diversification. Responsible investors understand that focusing solely on one ESG factor or one industry may not yield the desired impact. By diversifying their portfolios across various sectors and asset classes, responsible investors can spread their influence and support a broad range of sustainable initiatives. This approach helps to mitigate risks and maximize the potential for positive change.

In addition to the financial aspects, responsible investing also recognises the importance of transparency and accountability. Responsible investors expect companies to disclose relevant ESG information and performance metrics. This transparency allows investors to evaluate a company's sustainability practices and make informed investment decisions. Furthermore, responsible investors hold themselves accountable by regularly assessing the impact of their investments and adjusting their strategies as needed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sustainability-economics-emerges-as-key-player-in-financial-institutions-net-zero-transition-609641">ALSO READ|&nbsp;Sustainability Economics Is Key Player in Financial Institutions' Net-Zero Transition</a>

It is essential to note that responsible investing is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Different investors may have varying priorities and interpretations of what it means to be responsible. Some investors may focus on climate change and renewable energy, while others may emphasize social justice or corporate governance. Responsible investing allows for customisation based on individual values and preferences, enabling investors to align their portfolios with the issues they care about most deeply.

As responsible investing continues to gain momentum, it is crucial to establish clear standards and frameworks. Organisations such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) have been working to develop reporting guidelines and industry standards. These initiatives contribute to the evolution and standardisation of responsible investing practices, enhancing transparency and comparability across companies and sectors.

Responsible investing goes beyond avoiding "sin" industries and encompasses a proactive approach to create positive change. It involves integrating ESG factors into investment decision-making, engaging with companies to promote better practices, conducting thorough research, diversifying portfolios, and prioritising transparency and accountability. Responsible investing recognises the power of capital to drive sustainable outcomes and allows investors to align their financial goals with their personal values. As the field continues to evolve, it is crucial for investors, companies, and regulators to collaborate and refine the true definition of "responsible" in responsible investing.

The true definition of "responsible" in responsible investing extends far beyond mere compliance with regulations. It encompasses a comprehensive approach that considers the environmental, social, and governance aspects of investment decisions. Responsible investors aim to make a positive impact by supporting companies that prioritise sustainability, social responsibility, and good governance practices. By actively engaging with these companies, responsible investors strive to foster positive change and create a more sustainable and equitable future.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In recent years, the concept of responsible investing has gained significant traction in the world of finance. More and more investors are seeking to align their investment portfolios with their personal values and social concerns.

In recent years, the concept of responsible investing has gained significant traction in the world of finance. More and more investors are seeking to align their investment portfolios with their personal values and social concerns. However, the term "responsible" can be subjective and open to interpretation. What does it truly mean to be a responsible investor? Here, I talk about the depths of responsible investing, exploring its various dimensions and shedding light on the true definition of "responsible." At its core, responsible investing involves integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into the investment decision-making process. ESG factors encompass a wide range of issues, including climate change, human rights, labour standards, corporate governance, and more. Responsible investors aim to generate financial returns while simultaneously creating a positive impact on society and the environment. The true definition of "responsible" in responsible investing goes beyond simply avoiding investments in industries or companies that have a negative impact. It encompasses a proactive approach that seeks to identify and support companies that are actively working towards sustainable practices and positive social change. Responsible investors not only consider the risks associated with unsustainable practices but also seize opportunities to invest in businesses that are aligned with their values. One key aspect of responsible investing is engagement. Responsible investors recognise the power of their capital and actively engage with companies to encourage better practices. Through dialogue, voting on shareholder resolutions, and collaboration with other stakeholders, responsible investors seek to influence corporate behaviour in a positive direction. By doing so, they contribute to the long-term sustainability of companies and the broader economy. Responsible investing also involves robust research and analysis. Investors need to assess the ESG performance of companies and understand the potential risks and opportunities associated with their operations. This requires access to accurate and reliable data on ESG factors. Fortunately, in recent years, there has been a growing availability of ESG data and rating frameworks that enable investors to make informed decisions. By considering these factors, responsible investors can better identify companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices and good governance. Another important aspect of responsible investing is diversification. Responsible investors understand that focusing solely on one ESG factor or one industry may not yield the desired impact. By diversifying their portfolios across various sectors and asset classes, responsible investors can spread their influence and support a broad range of sustainable initiatives. This approach helps to mitigate risks and maximize the potential for positive change. In addition to the financial aspects, responsible investing also recognises the importance of transparency and accountability. Responsible investors expect companies to disclose relevant ESG information and performance metrics. This transparency allows investors to evaluate a company's sustainability practices and make informed investment decisions. Furthermore, responsible investors hold themselves accountable by regularly assessing the impact of their investments and adjusting their strategies as needed. ALSO READ| Sustainability Economics Is Key Player in Financial Institutions' Net-Zero Transition It is essential to note that responsible investing is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Different investors may have varying priorities and interpretations of what it means to be responsible. Some investors may focus on climate change and renewable energy, while others may emphasize social justice or corporate governance. Responsible investing allows for customisation based on individual values and preferences, enabling investors to align their portfolios with the issues they care about most deeply. As responsible investing continues to gain momentum, it is crucial to establish clear standards and frameworks. Organisations such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) have been working to develop reporting guidelines and industry standards. These initiatives contribute to the evolution and standardisation of responsible investing practices, enhancing transparency and comparability across companies and sectors. Responsible investing goes beyond avoiding "sin" industries and encompasses a proactive approach to create positive change. It involves integrating ESG factors into investment decision-making, engaging with companies to promote better practices, conducting thorough research, diversifying portfolios, and prioritising transparency and accountability. Responsible investing recognises the power of capital to drive sustainable outcomes and allows investors to align their financial goals with their personal values. As the field continues to evolve, it is crucial for investors, companies, and regulators to collaborate and refine the true definition of "responsible" in responsible investing. The true definition of "responsible" in responsible investing extends far beyond mere compliance with regulations. It encompasses a comprehensive approach that considers the environmental, social, and governance aspects of investment decisions. Responsible investors aim to make a positive impact by supporting companies that prioritise sustainability, social responsibility, and good governance practices. By actively engaging with these companies, responsible investors strive to foster positive change and create a more sustainable and equitable future. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

ESG Greenlight: Bringing about change through responsible investing

Climate change remains one of humanity's greatest challenges, prompting countries and institutions worldwide to take action by striving for near-zero greenhouse gas emissions. This ambitious goal, known as 'net zero,' requires a comprehensive transition to an environmentally friendly economy. Financial institutions play a pivotal role in this critical endeavor, and <a href="https://sustainabilityeconomics.com/">Sustainability Economics</a> has emerged as a leading solution provider to facilitate their net-zero targets.

Founded in 2022 by Kasu Venkata Reddy and Nayani Sreenadha Reddy, <a href="https://www.sustainabilityeconomics.com/static/media/SustainabilityEconomicsPressRelease.b118a518ad9b560be914.pdf">Sustainability Economics </a>is dedicated to simplifying the complex process of achieving net-zero transitions through cutting-edge technologies and an automation-first approach. Recognizing the importance of addressing climate change, the company aims to become the go-to destination for financial institutions&nbsp;seeking climate change mitigation strategies.

As the global finance industry constitutes a significant portion of the world's economy, it holds tremendous potential in the fight against climate change. However, transitioning to net zero requires various components, including carbon accounting, reporting, target setting, benchmarking, AI-driven climate scenario analysis, transition financing, carbon credits, and blockchain-powered marketplaces.

Providing a Platform for 'Change'

In response to these challenges, Sustainability Economics unveiled eight comprehensive platforms during the GreenFin 23 Summit in Boston, Massachusetts. These platforms cater to asset managers, asset owners, major banks, and insurers, providing them with the necessary tools to achieve their net-zero goals.

Among these platforms, 'Net Zero Investor' focuses on asset managers and asset owners, while 'Net-Zero Fin' and 'Net-Zero Insurer' assist insurance companies and banks. Additionally, Sustainability Economics offers five other platforms covering various aspects of climate financing, empowering the world to combat climate change effectively.

The 'Net-Zero Pulse' platform analyzes climate scenarios in alignment with models developed by esteemed organizations such as the Network for Greening the Financial System, International Energy Agency, and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). This ensures accurate and reliable data for informed decision-making.

Automating the issuance of carbon bonds and carbon credits transparently, the 'Net-Zero Bond' and 'Net-Zero Offset' platforms simplify the process while upholding transparency. Moreover, Sustainability Economics leverages blockchain technology through the 'Net-Zero DAOX' platform, which establishes a global marketplace for climate bonds and carbon credits.

The final platform, 'Net-Zero Metrics,' enables businesses to capture high-quality financial and climate metrics. By providing them with the necessary data, this platform facilitates informed decision-making and aids in making the right climate choices.

Together, these platforms guide businesses through seven phases of their journey toward achieving net zero. They enable companies to measure their carbon footprint, report emissions, set reduction targets, analyze climate scenarios, develop financing plans for a smooth transition, and issue and trade carbon bonds in the marketplace.

Sustainability Economics' business model centers around assisting financial institutions in their net-zero transitions while uncovering new business opportunities within the global net-zero economy. By leveraging their expertise and innovative platforms, Sustainability Economics aims to drive the transformation toward a sustainable future.

Follow Sustainability Economics on Twitter:&nbsp;@SE_NetZero

Climate change remains one of humanity's greatest challenges, prompting countries and institutions worldwide to take action by striving for near-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Climate change remains one of humanity's greatest challenges, prompting countries and institutions worldwide to take action by striving for near-zero greenhouse gas emissions. This ambitious goal, known as 'net zero,' requires a comprehensive transition to an environmentally friendly economy. Financial institutions play a pivotal role in this critical endeavor, and Sustainability Economics has emerged as a leading solution provider to facilitate their net-zero targets. Founded in 2022 by Kasu Venkata Reddy and Nayani Sreenadha Reddy, Sustainability Economics is dedicated to simplifying the complex process of achieving net-zero transitions through cutting-edge technologies and an automation-first approach. Recognizing the importance of addressing climate change, the company aims to become the go-to destination for financial institutions seeking climate change mitigation strategies. As the global finance industry constitutes a significant portion of the world's economy, it holds tremendous potential in the fight against climate change. However, transitioning to net zero requires various components, including carbon accounting, reporting, target setting, benchmarking, AI-driven climate scenario analysis, transition financing, carbon credits, and blockchain-powered marketplaces. Providing a Platform for 'Change' In response to these challenges, Sustainability Economics unveiled eight comprehensive platforms during the GreenFin 23 Summit in Boston, Massachusetts. These platforms cater to asset managers, asset owners, major banks, and insurers, providing them with the necessary tools to achieve their net-zero goals. Among these platforms, 'Net Zero Investor' focuses on asset managers and asset owners, while 'Net-Zero Fin' and 'Net-Zero Insurer' assist insurance companies and banks. Additionally, Sustainability Economics offers five other platforms covering various aspects of climate financing, empowering the world to combat climate change effectively. The 'Net-Zero Pulse' platform analyzes climate scenarios in alignment with models developed by esteemed organizations such as the Network for Greening the Financial System, International Energy Agency, and Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). This ensures accurate and reliable data for informed decision-making. Automating the issuance of carbon bonds and carbon credits transparently, the 'Net-Zero Bond' and 'Net-Zero Offset' platforms simplify the process while upholding transparency. Moreover, Sustainability Economics leverages blockchain technology through the 'Net-Zero DAOX' platform, which establishes a global marketplace for climate bonds and carbon credits. The final platform, 'Net-Zero Metrics,' enables businesses to capture high-quality financial and climate metrics. By providing them with the necessary data, this platform facilitates informed decision-making and aids in making the right climate choices. Together, these platforms guide businesses through seven phases of their journey toward achieving net zero. They enable companies to measure their carbon footprint, report emissions, set reduction targets, analyze climate scenarios, develop financing plans for a smooth transition, and issue and trade carbon bonds in the marketplace. Sustainability Economics' business model centers around assisting financial institutions in their net-zero transitions while uncovering new business opportunities within the global net-zero economy. By leveraging their expertise and innovative platforms, Sustainability Economics aims to drive the transformation toward a sustainable future. Follow Sustainability Economics on Twitter: @SE_NetZero

Sustainability Economics Emerges as Key Player in Financial Institutions' Net-Zero Transition

The world’s richest person and top entrepreneur, Elon Musk, has described ESG, or the Environment, Social and Governance movement, as the “Devil.” An article published recently by The Washington Free Beacon had the following caption: “From S&amp;P Global to the London Stock Exchange, tobacco companies are crushing Tesla in the ESG ratings. “How could cigarettes, which kill over eight million a year, be deemed a more ethical investment than electric cars?”&nbsp;

To this, Musk responded: “(This is) Why ESG is the devil…”

While ESG ratings are intended to assess a company's sustainability and ethical practices, Musk's behaviour and statements have often put him at odds with ESG frameworks, causing controversy and raising questions about the effectiveness of these ratings. In this article, we will explore Elon Musk's problems with ESG ratings and the debates surrounding his stance.

How does Tesla rate on ESG?

Last year, the Tesla, SpaceX founder said ESG was a “scam” after his electric car company was ejected from the S&amp;P 500 ESG index after only a year.&nbsp; 
 
Musk’s criticism of ESG stems from the fact that tobacco firms tend to receive higher ESG ratings than electric-vehicle maker Tesla. Musk highlighted a report that showed Tesla scoring only 37 out of 100 in S&amp;P Global’s latest ESG rankings, while tobacco giant Philip Morris scored 84. The London Stock Exchange gave British American Tobacco an ESG rating of 94, and Tesla a more middling 65.&nbsp;

MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International) that provides stock indexes, portfolio risk and performance analytics, and governance tools to institutional investors and hedge funds has been downgrading Tesla's ESG rating over time. In 2017, MSCI gave Tesla an ESG rating of "AAA," but it reduced the rating to "AA" in 2018 and "A" in 2022. 
 
The reasons for the downgrades are:

•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Labour management: MSCI found that Tesla has had a number of problems with labour relations, including allegations of racial discrimination and poor working conditions. 
•&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Corporate governance: MSCI found that Tesla has a weak corporate governance structure, with a lack of independent directors and a CEO who has too much power.

ESG data can be noisy, which can lead to different rating agencies assigning different scores to the same company. Musk has argued that these ESG scores are flawed and do not accurately reflect Tesla's social contributions.

However, the ESG scores for Tesla from the above-mentioned agencies highlight some common challenges facing the company.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-responds-to-jack-dorseys-claims-that-india-threatened-to-eject-twitter-out-606721">ALSO READ|&nbsp;Elon Musk responds to Jack Dorsey’s claim that India threatened to boot out Twitter</a>

The "S" in ESG&nbsp;

Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle industry, but it has fallen behind its peers when it comes to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. ESG is a broad framework that assesses a company's performance on a variety of factors, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance. 
 
Tesla has been praised for its environmental impact, as its electric vehicles produce zero emissions. However, the company has been criticised for its lack of diversity and its treatment of employees. Tesla's board of directors is overwhelmingly white and male, and the company has been accused of unfair labour practices. 
 
In addition, Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, has been criticised for his support of cryptocurrencies, which have a significant carbon footprint. Musk has also been accused of making offensive remarks about women and minorities. 
These criticisms have led some ESG rating agencies to downgrade Tesla's ESG score. While Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle industry, it needs to do more to address its ESG shortcomings if it wants to be a leader in the 21st century.

ESG is not just about the environment. It is also about social responsibility and corporate governance. Tesla needs to recognise that ESG is a holistic framework. It cannot focus on just one factor, such as the environment, and ignore the others. If Tesla wants to be a leader for the 21st century, it needs to do more than just make electric cars. It needs to be a good company for all of its stakeholders.

One can’t live in a vacuum of just environmental or social issues – they are all intertwined.

ESG vs sustainability vs impact

Some, including Musk, argue that the ratings should recognise and reward companies that actively support the well-being of the planet and society. On the other hand, entities like S&amp;P, who produce these ratings, maintain that the purpose of the ratings is to indicate the extent to which a company's stock faces risks from ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors. This is why companies like Exxon Mobil, which contribute significantly to climate change, are permitted to be part of an ESG index if they can demonstrate efforts to reduce that risk.

ESG and sustainability are distinct yet interconnected concepts. ESG serves as a framework for evaluating an organisation's legitimacy and competitiveness, focusing on performance assessment. Sustainability, on the other hand, operates as a management paradigm aimed at ensuring an organisation's long-term viability or "the business of staying in business."

ESG primarily centres around evaluating the risks and opportunities posed to companies by evolving social, environmental, and governance factors. In the United States, it primarily considers the impact of the world on the company, rather than the impact of the company on the planet. 
. 
Effectively, Musk is conflating ESG with sustainability and impact. The issue with Musk's claims is that ESG is not concerned with impact but rather with operations. It provides a lens through which to assess how global events might jeopardise a company's enterprise value, rather than focusing on how a company itself may pose risks to the world. Hypothetically, if there were an S&amp;P 500 Impact Index, Tesla would likely be included while Exxon Mobil would not. However, this does not mean that Tesla can automatically claim compliance with ESG principles.

Therefore, Musk is both correct and mistaken. Tesla has undoubtedly made significant contributions to addressing climate change, but ESG does not necessarily measure the aspects that Musk and others believe it does.

In the context of investors, instead of relying solely on generic ESG ratings, it would be advisable for them to first identify the specific ESG considerations that are most important to them and then select an investment strategy accordingly.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The world’s richest person and top entrepreneur, Elon Musk, has described ESG, or the Environment, Social and Governance movement, as the “Devil.” An article published recently by The Washington Free Beacon had the following caption: “From S&P Global to the London Stock Exchange, tobacco companies are crushing Tesla in the ESG ratings.

The world’s richest person and top entrepreneur, Elon Musk, has described ESG, or the Environment, Social and Governance movement, as the “Devil.” An article published recently by The Washington Free Beacon had the following caption: “From S&P Global to the London Stock Exchange, tobacco companies are crushing Tesla in the ESG ratings. “How could cigarettes, which kill over eight million a year, be deemed a more ethical investment than electric cars?” To this, Musk responded: “(This is) Why ESG is the devil…” While ESG ratings are intended to assess a company's sustainability and ethical practices, Musk's behaviour and statements have often put him at odds with ESG frameworks, causing controversy and raising questions about the effectiveness of these ratings. In this article, we will explore Elon Musk's problems with ESG ratings and the debates surrounding his stance. How does Tesla rate on ESG? Last year, the Tesla, SpaceX founder said ESG was a “scam” after his electric car company was ejected from the S&P 500 ESG index after only a year. Musk’s criticism of ESG stems from the fact that tobacco firms tend to receive higher ESG ratings than electric-vehicle maker Tesla. Musk highlighted a report that showed Tesla scoring only 37 out of 100 in S&P Global’s latest ESG rankings, while tobacco giant Philip Morris scored 84. The London Stock Exchange gave British American Tobacco an ESG rating of 94, and Tesla a more middling 65. MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International) that provides stock indexes, portfolio risk and performance analytics, and governance tools to institutional investors and hedge funds has been downgrading Tesla's ESG rating over time. In 2017, MSCI gave Tesla an ESG rating of "AAA," but it reduced the rating to "AA" in 2018 and "A" in 2022. The reasons for the downgrades are: • Labour management: MSCI found that Tesla has had a number of problems with labour relations, including allegations of racial discrimination and poor working conditions. • Corporate governance: MSCI found that Tesla has a weak corporate governance structure, with a lack of independent directors and a CEO who has too much power. ESG data can be noisy, which can lead to different rating agencies assigning different scores to the same company. Musk has argued that these ESG scores are flawed and do not accurately reflect Tesla's social contributions. However, the ESG scores for Tesla from the above-mentioned agencies highlight some common challenges facing the company. ALSO READ| Elon Musk responds to Jack Dorsey’s claim that India threatened to boot out Twitter The "S" in ESG Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle industry, but it has fallen behind its peers when it comes to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. ESG is a broad framework that assesses a company's performance on a variety of factors, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance. Tesla has been praised for its environmental impact, as its electric vehicles produce zero emissions. However, the company has been criticised for its lack of diversity and its treatment of employees. Tesla's board of directors is overwhelmingly white and male, and the company has been accused of unfair labour practices. In addition, Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, has been criticised for his support of cryptocurrencies, which have a significant carbon footprint. Musk has also been accused of making offensive remarks about women and minorities. These criticisms have led some ESG rating agencies to downgrade Tesla's ESG score. While Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle industry, it needs to do more to address its ESG shortcomings if it wants to be a leader in the 21st century. ESG is not just about the environment. It is also about social responsibility and corporate governance. Tesla needs to recognise that ESG is a holistic framework. It cannot focus on just one factor, such as the environment, and ignore the others. If Tesla wants to be a leader for the 21st century, it needs to do more than just make electric cars. It needs to be a good company for all of its stakeholders. One can’t live in a vacuum of just environmental or social issues – they are all intertwined. ESG vs sustainability vs impact Some, including Musk, argue that the ratings should recognise and reward companies that actively support the well-being of the planet and society. On the other hand, entities like S&P, who produce these ratings, maintain that the purpose of the ratings is to indicate the extent to which a company's stock faces risks from ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors. This is why companies like Exxon Mobil, which contribute significantly to climate change, are permitted to be part of an ESG index if they can demonstrate efforts to reduce that risk. ESG and sustainability are distinct yet interconnected concepts. ESG serves as a framework for evaluating an organisation's legitimacy and competitiveness, focusing on performance assessment. Sustainability, on the other hand, operates as a management paradigm aimed at ensuring an organisation's long-term viability or "the business of staying in business." ESG primarily centres around evaluating the risks and opportunities posed to companies by evolving social, environmental, and governance factors. In the United States, it primarily considers the impact of the world on the company, rather than the impact of the company on the planet. . Effectively, Musk is conflating ESG with sustainability and impact. The issue with Musk's claims is that ESG is not concerned with impact but rather with operations. It provides a lens through which to assess how global events might jeopardise a company's enterprise value, rather than focusing on how a company itself may pose risks to the world. Hypothetically, if there were an S&P 500 Impact Index, Tesla would likely be included while Exxon Mobil would not. However, this does not mean that Tesla can automatically claim compliance with ESG principles. Therefore, Musk is both correct and mistaken. Tesla has undoubtedly made significant contributions to addressing climate change, but ESG does not necessarily measure the aspects that Musk and others believe it does. In the context of investors, instead of relying solely on generic ESG ratings, it would be advisable for them to first identify the specific ESG considerations that are most important to them and then select an investment strategy accordingly. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The unplugged version: Elon Musk Vs ESG

In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, businesses are increasingly seeking ways to showcase their sustainability efforts. However, a concept known as "green hushing" has emerged, casting doubt on the transparency of these eco-friendly claims.&nbsp; 
 
Green hushing refers to the intentional silence or omission of important environmental information by companies. This deceptive practice sets it apart from greenwashing, which involves exaggerating or misleading consumers about environmental initiatives. In this article, we will explore the insidious nature of green hushing, its implications, and how it differs from greenwashing.

Understanding Green Hushing

Green hushing is a strategy employed by companies to withhold or downplay negative environmental aspects associated with their products or practices. While greenwashing aims to create a positive image by exaggerating eco-friendliness, green hushing seeks to maintain a neutral stance by avoiding any mention of the environmental impact entirely. This silence prevents consumers from making informed choices and inhibits their ability to hold companies accountable for their actions.

A 2022 survey compiled by South Pole revealed that one in four companies surveyed have set science-based emission reduction targets, but they do not plan to publicise them. If a side effect of setting a goal is that a bunch of people are yelling at companies from the outside for not getting there fast enough, that creates an incentive to be a little quieter. Increased scrutiny by the media, NGOs, the public, and consumer and market authorities may have made companies more wary than ever about communicating their targets.

France is one of the few countries that has explicit regulation in place on corporate climate claims. In contrast, Singapore-based companies were the most open to publicising their reduction targets. Among big, publicly traded companies in the US and Europe, well-established sustainability norms would dull the impact of. green hushing. But among smaller businesses in these places, and for bigger firms in other regions, those norms are less established; in that sense green hushing could be a problem, if it slows the expansion of the norms into that new terrain.

Green hushing often manifests in various ways. For instance, a company might market a product as "green" without disclosing the materials used or the manufacturing processes involved. Another example could be a business withholding information about its waste management practices or pollution levels. By selectively sharing information, companies create an illusion of sustainability without addressing their true environmental impact.

Implications of Green Hushing

Green hushing has several detrimental effects on both consumers and the environment. Firstly, it erodes trust and transparency between businesses and their customers. Consumers who genuinely care about the environment rely on accurate information to make responsible purchasing decisions. When companies engage in green hushing, they undermine this trust, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish genuine eco-friendly products from those making false claims. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-world-environment-day-5-international-deals-that-would-affect-environment-in-the-years-to-come-600963">ALSO READ|&nbsp;5 international agreements that would affect the planet in years to come</a> 
 
Moreover, green hushing perpetuates the status quo of unsustainable practices. By silencing information about harmful production methods or their ecological footprint, companies avoid the scrutiny and pressure to improve their environmental performance. This obstructs progress toward a more sustainable future and inhibits the development of innovative solutions to address environmental challenges.

Additionally, green hushing can hinder regulatory efforts to enforce environmental standards. When companies obscure or fail to disclose critical environmental information, it becomes challenging for regulatory bodies to assess compliance and hold businesses accountable. This lack of transparency undermines regulatory efforts, ultimately weakening the effectiveness of environmental protection measures.

Distinguishing Green Hushing from Greenwashing

Although green hushing and greenwashing share similarities, they differ in their approach and intent. Greenwashing involves making exaggerated or misleading claims about a product's environmental benefits. It is a deliberate marketing strategy designed to attract environmentally conscious consumers. On the other hand, green hushing is characterised by the omission or concealment of crucial environmental information, preventing consumers from fully understanding the true impact of a product or company.

While greenwashing misleads consumers by creating a false perception of environmental responsibility, green hushing keeps consumers in the dark altogether. Greenwashing attempts to capitalise on the demand for sustainability, while green hushing aims to maintain a veneer of neutrality and avoid scrutiny.

A fear of being called out

It remains to be seen if green hushing will have the same sort of staying power as its antithesis greenwashing. That term was coined nearly 40 years ago to describe the way companies exaggerate about their environmental credentials and has become so commonplace it was recently added to the dictionary. One assessment of greenwashing in the European Union last year found that nearly half of the “green online claims” being made by companies were exaggerated, deceptive, or false.&nbsp;

Glaring data points like this have triggered legal crackdowns; Australia’s competition watchdog recently made greenwashing an enforcement priority , and new EU Directive could prohibit environmental performance claims that can’t be backed up. Heightened sensitivity to such scrutiny might speak to the idea of not speaking at all.

There are other practical reasons for green hushing. One is a perception that green products will require undesirable trade-offs: If I tell you I’m buying a green cleaning product for my house, you might not expect it to get mildew off the shower tiles.There’s also a perception issue related to timing. If I’m the first company to go net-zero then I get more press for it, if I’m the 347th company to go net-zero, nobody cares and if I’m the 1,500th company then I’m actually seen as a laggard.

Accountability has to be fostered

Green hushing represents a troubling trend in the corporate world, as it stifles transparency and hampers progress toward sustainability. By intentionally withholding environmental information, companies impede consumer choice and hinder efforts. to address pressing ecological challenges. It is crucial for businesses to embrace genuine transparency, providing accurate and comprehensive information about their environmental practices.

As consumers, we have the responsibility to remain vigilant and demand transparency from the companies we support. By fostering a culture of accountability and encouraging open dialogue, we can help dismantle the deceptive practices of green hushing and foster a truly sustainable future. 
 
(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, businesses are increasingly seeking ways to showcase their sustainability efforts. However, a concept known as "green hushing" has emerged, casting doubt on the transparency of these eco-friendly claims.

In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, businesses are increasingly seeking ways to showcase their sustainability efforts. However, a concept known as "green hushing" has emerged, casting doubt on the transparency of these eco-friendly claims. Green hushing refers to the intentional silence or omission of important environmental information by companies. This deceptive practice sets it apart from greenwashing, which involves exaggerating or misleading consumers about environmental initiatives. In this article, we will explore the insidious nature of green hushing, its implications, and how it differs from greenwashing. Understanding Green Hushing Green hushing is a strategy employed by companies to withhold or downplay negative environmental aspects associated with their products or practices. While greenwashing aims to create a positive image by exaggerating eco-friendliness, green hushing seeks to maintain a neutral stance by avoiding any mention of the environmental impact entirely. This silence prevents consumers from making informed choices and inhibits their ability to hold companies accountable for their actions. A 2022 survey compiled by South Pole revealed that one in four companies surveyed have set science-based emission reduction targets, but they do not plan to publicise them. If a side effect of setting a goal is that a bunch of people are yelling at companies from the outside for not getting there fast enough, that creates an incentive to be a little quieter. Increased scrutiny by the media, NGOs, the public, and consumer and market authorities may have made companies more wary than ever about communicating their targets. France is one of the few countries that has explicit regulation in place on corporate climate claims. In contrast, Singapore-based companies were the most open to publicising their reduction targets. Among big, publicly traded companies in the US and Europe, well-established sustainability norms would dull the impact of. green hushing. But among smaller businesses in these places, and for bigger firms in other regions, those norms are less established; in that sense green hushing could be a problem, if it slows the expansion of the norms into that new terrain. Green hushing often manifests in various ways. For instance, a company might market a product as "green" without disclosing the materials used or the manufacturing processes involved. Another example could be a business withholding information about its waste management practices or pollution levels. By selectively sharing information, companies create an illusion of sustainability without addressing their true environmental impact. Implications of Green Hushing Green hushing has several detrimental effects on both consumers and the environment. Firstly, it erodes trust and transparency between businesses and their customers. Consumers who genuinely care about the environment rely on accurate information to make responsible purchasing decisions. When companies engage in green hushing, they undermine this trust, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish genuine eco-friendly products from those making false claims. ALSO READ| 5 international agreements that would affect the planet in years to come Moreover, green hushing perpetuates the status quo of unsustainable practices. By silencing information about harmful production methods or their ecological footprint, companies avoid the scrutiny and pressure to improve their environmental performance. This obstructs progress toward a more sustainable future and inhibits the development of innovative solutions to address environmental challenges. Additionally, green hushing can hinder regulatory efforts to enforce environmental standards. When companies obscure or fail to disclose critical environmental information, it becomes challenging for regulatory bodies to assess compliance and hold businesses accountable. This lack of transparency undermines regulatory efforts, ultimately weakening the effectiveness of environmental protection measures. Distinguishing Green Hushing from Greenwashing Although green hushing and greenwashing share similarities, they differ in their approach and intent. Greenwashing involves making exaggerated or misleading claims about a product's environmental benefits. It is a deliberate marketing strategy designed to attract environmentally conscious consumers. On the other hand, green hushing is characterised by the omission or concealment of crucial environmental information, preventing consumers from fully understanding the true impact of a product or company. While greenwashing misleads consumers by creating a false perception of environmental responsibility, green hushing keeps consumers in the dark altogether. Greenwashing attempts to capitalise on the demand for sustainability, while green hushing aims to maintain a veneer of neutrality and avoid scrutiny. A fear of being called out It remains to be seen if green hushing will have the same sort of staying power as its antithesis greenwashing. That term was coined nearly 40 years ago to describe the way companies exaggerate about their environmental credentials and has become so commonplace it was recently added to the dictionary. One assessment of greenwashing in the European Union last year found that nearly half of the “green online claims” being made by companies were exaggerated, deceptive, or false. Glaring data points like this have triggered legal crackdowns; Australia’s competition watchdog recently made greenwashing an enforcement priority , and new EU Directive could prohibit environmental performance claims that can’t be backed up. Heightened sensitivity to such scrutiny might speak to the idea of not speaking at all. There are other practical reasons for green hushing. One is a perception that green products will require undesirable trade-offs: If I tell you I’m buying a green cleaning product for my house, you might not expect it to get mildew off the shower tiles.There’s also a perception issue related to timing. If I’m the first company to go net-zero then I get more press for it, if I’m the 347th company to go net-zero, nobody cares and if I’m the 1,500th company then I’m actually seen as a laggard. Accountability has to be fostered Green hushing represents a troubling trend in the corporate world, as it stifles transparency and hampers progress toward sustainability. By intentionally withholding environmental information, companies impede consumer choice and hinder efforts. to address pressing ecological challenges. It is crucial for businesses to embrace genuine transparency, providing accurate and comprehensive information about their environmental practices. As consumers, we have the responsibility to remain vigilant and demand transparency from the companies we support. By fostering a culture of accountability and encouraging open dialogue, we can help dismantle the deceptive practices of green hushing and foster a truly sustainable future. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Green Hushing: Unveiling the deceptive silence beyond greenwashing

Actress and celebrity mom influencer Sameera Reddy came to Goa for 10 days during the pandemic and never went back. In an exclusive conversation with WION's Nikita Jain, she talks about how she, along with her family, live a sustainable life in Goa and what it is like to give back to the environment.

World Environment Day: Actress Sameera Reddy's 'sustainable' life in Goa

Investments must be increased to $4 trillion by 2030 in order to meet the 2015 Net Zero emission targets. The onus is on Asia, the world's largest energy user. To learn more about how Asia is redefining the landscape of green financing.

Asia's Green Revolution: Leading the charge towards sustainability

In a bid to minimise, CO2 emissions, a few students have built a sustainable car model and showed their prototype on a US promotional tour to universities and companies. The car is called Zero Emission Mobility or ZEM.

World Business Watch: Students build sustainable all-electric car to reduce CO2 emissions

“The business of doing business is business” is an age-old conventional approach of the functioning of businesses around the world, which has to change&nbsp;foremost. In the post-pandemic&nbsp;period, you might have surely heard the term, ‘greenwashing’, a savior wherein businesses portray themselves to be following ethical and sustainable practices in order to achieve a larger-collaborative agenda. It's veritably likely that businesses use this as a marketing gimmick or a way to overshadow the hazards it's causing. What you might be wondering is if it's really possible to count the ill effects&nbsp;being caused to the environment? Clearly, it's possible with the new propositions and research being pursued on a diurnal basis. 

Did you know that what you invest in could have an impact much further than what you could have imagined? Or your investment could have an impact on the entire frugality to stabilize it? One similar intriguing and essential concept for a better ever-growing model is sustainable finance.&nbsp;

Sustainable finance is a means to bridge the gaps of inequality between the economy, society and the governance model. It's an evolved term from green finance. Sustainability is piercing in each and every organisational activity, making it a ‘better late than never’ situation to bring about a change. Sustainable finance refers to the process of taking environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into account when making investment opinions in the fiscal sector, leading to further long- term feasible investments in sustainable profitable projects and systems. 

Environmental considerations include the impacts on climate change, pollution and biodiversity threats. Social considerations relate to issues of inequality, inclusiveness, labour practices, education, upliftment of backward societies, investment in human capital and communities, as well as human rights issues. The governance of public and private institutions – including operation structures, employee relations and administrative remuneration, policies for monitoring, regulations etc. – plays an aberrant part in icing the addition of social and environmental considerations in the decision-making process.&nbsp;

Now you may ask why sustainable investments? To add to the explanation, there are three simple and short reasons. First, it's ethical and for the future of our children and planet. Second, it serves as a means of risk mitigation in an ever-dynamic and evolving world. Third, the impact it creates leads towards a positive change in functioning of the corporations. Many important business stakeholders consider sustainability as a criteria in their checklist so that the investment takes into account the ESG factors.&nbsp;

Yet again coming back to the question. Is it really possible? Carbon taxing is one similar illustration, wherein the companies are held responsible for their carbon emissions&nbsp;and have to pay penalties on their emissions and are encouraged to borrow alternate practices. Such deductions are shown in the books to find out the real costs and impacts created thereof. Another factor is changing client perceptions. Consumers prefer to buy from those businesses which share the same values, and are ethical and socially evolving, leading towards a sustainable future.

This is the time for action to incorporate sustainable finance in every business practice more than ever, as every investment and action counts! Hence a sustainable finance system must be lived and big leaders should pave the way for the arising associations to acclimatize this practice. 

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

“The business of doing business is business” is an age-old conventional approach of the functioning of businesses around the world, which has to change foremost.

“The business of doing business is business” is an age-old conventional approach of the functioning of businesses around the world, which has to change foremost. In the post-pandemic period, you might have surely heard the term, ‘greenwashing’, a savior wherein businesses portray themselves to be following ethical and sustainable practices in order to achieve a larger-collaborative agenda. It's veritably likely that businesses use this as a marketing gimmick or a way to overshadow the hazards it's causing. What you might be wondering is if it's really possible to count the ill effects being caused to the environment? Clearly, it's possible with the new propositions and research being pursued on a diurnal basis. Did you know that what you invest in could have an impact much further than what you could have imagined? Or your investment could have an impact on the entire frugality to stabilize it? One similar intriguing and essential concept for a better ever-growing model is sustainable finance. Sustainable finance is a means to bridge the gaps of inequality between the economy, society and the governance model. It's an evolved term from green finance. Sustainability is piercing in each and every organisational activity, making it a ‘better late than never’ situation to bring about a change. Sustainable finance refers to the process of taking environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations into account when making investment opinions in the fiscal sector, leading to further long- term feasible investments in sustainable profitable projects and systems. Environmental considerations include the impacts on climate change, pollution and biodiversity threats. Social considerations relate to issues of inequality, inclusiveness, labour practices, education, upliftment of backward societies, investment in human capital and communities, as well as human rights issues. The governance of public and private institutions – including operation structures, employee relations and administrative remuneration, policies for monitoring, regulations etc. – plays an aberrant part in icing the addition of social and environmental considerations in the decision-making process. Now you may ask why sustainable investments? To add to the explanation, there are three simple and short reasons. First, it's ethical and for the future of our children and planet. Second, it serves as a means of risk mitigation in an ever-dynamic and evolving world. Third, the impact it creates leads towards a positive change in functioning of the corporations. Many important business stakeholders consider sustainability as a criteria in their checklist so that the investment takes into account the ESG factors. Yet again coming back to the question. Is it really possible? Carbon taxing is one similar illustration, wherein the companies are held responsible for their carbon emissions and have to pay penalties on their emissions and are encouraged to borrow alternate practices. Such deductions are shown in the books to find out the real costs and impacts created thereof. Another factor is changing client perceptions. Consumers prefer to buy from those businesses which share the same values, and are ethical and socially evolving, leading towards a sustainable future. This is the time for action to incorporate sustainable finance in every business practice more than ever, as every investment and action counts! Hence a sustainable finance system must be lived and big leaders should pave the way for the arising associations to acclimatize this practice. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Sustainable finance: Is it really possible?

Top European clubs will be limited to spending no more than 70% of their revenue on their squads under new "sustainability regulations" passed by UEFA's executive committee on Thursday.

The new approach will replace the previous Financial Fair Play system and introduces a "squad cost rule" that will limit spending on wages, transfers and agent fees.

The 70% figure will be reached after a three year transition period, gradually falling from 90%.

"UEFA's first financial regulations, introduced in 2010, served its primary purpose," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said at the Executive Committee meeting in Nyon.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-quashes-rumours-of-changing-length-of-matches-for-world-cup-qatar-2022-469127">FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022</a>

"They helped pull European football finances back from the brink and revolutionised how European football clubs are run.

"However, the evolution of the football industry, alongside the inevitable financial effects of the pandemic, has shown the need for wholesale reform and new financial sustainability regulations."

UEFA added that acceptable losses will double from 30 million euros ($32.74 million) over three years to 60 million euros over the same period.

The new regulations will come into force in June 2022.

The issue of Russia's membership of UEFA was not on the agenda of the UEFA meeting but Ceferin suggested that it remained under consideration following the invasion of Ukraine.

"There are considerations about many things these days. Day by day, hour by hour, the situation is changing and again I would not be a serious UEFA president if I would first speak to the media and then speak to the Exco or general assembly or whoever," said the Slovenian.

Russia has expressed interest in a bid to host the European Championship in 2028 or 2032 but Ceferin declined to discuss that prospect.

“I won’t comment on any bids, UK bid or any other bids, but we are discussing about it and you will have the answer very soon," he said.

The United Kingdom nations and Ireland have made a declaration of interest to host the 2028 competition along with Turkey and Russia.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/city-to-unveil-sergio-agueros-statue-on-10th-anniversary-of-title-winning-goal-in-manchester-469069">City to unveil Sergio Aguero's statue on 10th anniversary of title-winning goal in Manchester</a>

Italy, along with Turkey and Russia, have said they intend to bid for 2032.

Ceferin said discussions over the qualification format for the new look Champions League, which will begin in 2024/25 remained ongoing but a final decision was due next month.

UEFA were strong opponents of the FIFA plan for a biennial World Cup and Ceferin said he was pleased that the idea had been taken off the table by global soccer's governing body at their congress in Doha last week.

Asked about possible alternative tournaments, Ceferin said: "It is good that they have listened to the football community (about the biennial World Cup). I don't think there is much time for new competitions but let's speak about it and see. For now we didn't discuss it. For me it is very good that this project which is more or less a nonsense is off the table."

Top European clubs will be limited to spending no more than 70% of their revenue on their squads under new "sustainability regulations" passed by UEFA's executive committee on Thursday.

Top European clubs will be limited to spending no more than 70% of their revenue on their squads under new "sustainability regulations" passed by UEFA's executive committee on Thursday. The new approach will replace the previous Financial Fair Play system and introduces a "squad cost rule" that will limit spending on wages, transfers and agent fees. The 70% figure will be reached after a three year transition period, gradually falling from 90%. "UEFA's first financial regulations, introduced in 2010, served its primary purpose," UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said at the Executive Committee meeting in Nyon. ALSO READ: FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022 "They helped pull European football finances back from the brink and revolutionised how European football clubs are run. "However, the evolution of the football industry, alongside the inevitable financial effects of the pandemic, has shown the need for wholesale reform and new financial sustainability regulations." UEFA added that acceptable losses will double from 30 million euros ($32.74 million) over three years to 60 million euros over the same period. The new regulations will come into force in June 2022. The issue of Russia's membership of UEFA was not on the agenda of the UEFA meeting but Ceferin suggested that it remained under consideration following the invasion of Ukraine. "There are considerations about many things these days. Day by day, hour by hour, the situation is changing and again I would not be a serious UEFA president if I would first speak to the media and then speak to the Exco or general assembly or whoever," said the Slovenian. Russia has expressed interest in a bid to host the European Championship in 2028 or 2032 but Ceferin declined to discuss that prospect. “I won’t comment on any bids, UK bid or any other bids, but we are discussing about it and you will have the answer very soon," he said. The United Kingdom nations and Ireland have made a declaration of interest to host the 2028 competition along with Turkey and Russia. ALSO READ: City to unveil Sergio Aguero's statue on 10th anniversary of title-winning goal in Manchester Italy, along with Turkey and Russia, have said they intend to bid for 2032. Ceferin said discussions over the qualification format for the new look Champions League, which will begin in 2024/25 remained ongoing but a final decision was due next month. UEFA were strong opponents of the FIFA plan for a biennial World Cup and Ceferin said he was pleased that the idea had been taken off the table by global soccer's governing body at their congress in Doha last week. Asked about possible alternative tournaments, Ceferin said: "It is good that they have listened to the football community (about the biennial World Cup). I don't think there is much time for new competitions but let's speak about it and see. For now we didn't discuss it. For me it is very good that this project which is more or less a nonsense is off the table."

UEFA adopts new financial sustainability rules for clubs from June 2022

US President Joe Biden has pushed for the importance of COVID-19 vaccine mandates for public safety as well as economic sustainability.

Speaking at an event on the importance of COVID-19 vaccination requirements on friday, President Biden mentioned various paths to battle the pandemic.

"One, vaccinate the unvaccinated, two, continue to keep the vaccinated protected, keep children safe, increasing test and protect the economic recovery and improve the care of the people with COVID-19," he said in his speech.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-francisco-bay-area-to-drop-some-indoor-mask-mandates-419042">&nbsp;San Francisco bay area to drop some indoor mask mandates</a>

He added that "more than 185 million Americans are fully vaccinated and more than 75 per cent of eligible Americans have got one shot so far.

"Biden also lobbied for vaccine requirements as an effective tool to end the pandemic, arguing mandates had become necessary to turn the corner on the pandemic."

These requirements work. And as the Business Roundtable and others told me when I announced the first requirement, that encouraged businesses to feel they could come in and demand the same thing of their employees.

More people are getting vaccinated. More lives are being saved," he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-national-guard-medical-teams-deployed-in-some-areas-in-california-amid-virus-surge-418338">US National Guard medical teams deployed in some areas in California amid virus surge</a>

His speech comes as part of a broader effort from the White House in recent weeks to more vocally encourage vaccine mandates at private companies as a measure to turn the tide on the coronavirus pandemic, as per The Hill.

A White House analysis released in advance of Biden's trip found vaccination rates increased by more than 20 per cent in companies, educational institutions, health systems and public sector agencies that have required their employees to get the shot.

The White House further credited vaccination requirements with cutting the rate of unvaccinated Americans by one-third from the time Biden initially announced a vaccine attestation policy for federal workers, it added.

US President Joe Biden has pushed for the importance of COVID-19 vaccine mandates for public safety as well as economic sustainability. Speaking at an event on the importance of COVID-19 vaccination requirements on friday, President Biden mentioned various paths to battle the pandemic.

US President Joe Biden has pushed for the importance of COVID-19 vaccine mandates for public safety as well as economic sustainability. Speaking at an event on the importance of COVID-19 vaccination requirements on friday, President Biden mentioned various paths to battle the pandemic. "One, vaccinate the unvaccinated, two, continue to keep the vaccinated protected, keep children safe, increasing test and protect the economic recovery and improve the care of the people with COVID-19," he said in his speech. Also Read | San Francisco bay area to drop some indoor mask mandates He added that "more than 185 million Americans are fully vaccinated and more than 75 per cent of eligible Americans have got one shot so far. "Biden also lobbied for vaccine requirements as an effective tool to end the pandemic, arguing mandates had become necessary to turn the corner on the pandemic." These requirements work. And as the Business Roundtable and others told me when I announced the first requirement, that encouraged businesses to feel they could come in and demand the same thing of their employees. More people are getting vaccinated. More lives are being saved," he said. Also Read | US National Guard medical teams deployed in some areas in California amid virus surge His speech comes as part of a broader effort from the White House in recent weeks to more vocally encourage vaccine mandates at private companies as a measure to turn the tide on the coronavirus pandemic, as per The Hill. A White House analysis released in advance of Biden's trip found vaccination rates increased by more than 20 per cent in companies, educational institutions, health systems and public sector agencies that have required their employees to get the shot. The White House further credited vaccination requirements with cutting the rate of unvaccinated Americans by one-third from the time Biden initially announced a vaccine attestation policy for federal workers, it added.

Biden pushes benefits of COVID-19 vaccine mandates for public safety, economic sustainability

To make sure nothing goes to waste, a group has started using hair cuttings from salons to mop oil spills, dyes and hair bleach from lakes and oceans in the UK.

Green Salon Collective (GSC) has signed an agreement with 550 salons in the UK and Ireland to contribute to salon sustainability.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-accuses-zara-and-other-brands-of-cultural-appropriation-388220" hreflang="en">Mexico accuses Zara and other brands of cultural appropriation</a>

"Hair salons are one of the biggest contributors to waste on the high street," said GSC co-founder Paul Seaward. "We were shocked to see&nbsp;how far behind the UK is with salon sustainability, this was long overdue."

The group collects hair cuttings from different salons and then makes cotton and nylon tubes out of that hair, called 'hair blooms'. These tubes are then placed on the shores of beaches and help stop the oil spills from spreading.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/uk-police-accidentally-discover-bitcoin-mine-while-searching-for-cannabis-warehouse-388213" hreflang="en">UK police accidentally discover Bitcoin mine while searching for cannabis warehouse</a>

In the last 10 months, the group has collected 500 kg of hair and 50 kg out of it has been used for cleanup operations. The rest will also be sent to farmers who will use it in compost to utilise the protein and nitrogen in it to enrich plants.

Hairdressing foils are also being recycled as only one per cent of foils were being recycled till now. Within the first few months, 2.2 tonnes of foil have been recycled.

"Every salon should be joining, we have to take responsibility for our own waste. This is just the start of something huge," Karine Jackson, a salon owner urged others to join in.

To make sure nothing goes to waste, a group has started using hair cuttings from salons to mop oil spills, dyes and hair bleach from lakes and oceans in the UK. Green Salon Collective (GSC) has signed an agreement with 550 salons in the UK and Ireland to contribute to salon sustainability.

To make sure nothing goes to waste, a group has started using hair cuttings from salons to mop oil spills, dyes and hair bleach from lakes and oceans in the UK. Green Salon Collective (GSC) has signed an agreement with 550 salons in the UK and Ireland to contribute to salon sustainability. Also read | Mexico accuses Zara and other brands of cultural appropriation "Hair salons are one of the biggest contributors to waste on the high street," said GSC co-founder Paul Seaward. "We were shocked to see how far behind the UK is with salon sustainability, this was long overdue." The group collects hair cuttings from different salons and then makes cotton and nylon tubes out of that hair, called 'hair blooms'. These tubes are then placed on the shores of beaches and help stop the oil spills from spreading. Also read | UK police accidentally discover Bitcoin mine while searching for cannabis warehouse In the last 10 months, the group has collected 500 kg of hair and 50 kg out of it has been used for cleanup operations. The rest will also be sent to farmers who will use it in compost to utilise the protein and nitrogen in it to enrich plants. Hairdressing foils are also being recycled as only one per cent of foils were being recycled till now. Within the first few months, 2.2 tonnes of foil have been recycled. "Every salon should be joining, we have to take responsibility for our own waste. This is just the start of something huge," Karine Jackson, a salon owner urged others to join in.

Salon sustainability: Hair cutting being used to contain oil spills

Already in a league of their own when it comes to sustainability in sport, innovative English soccer club Forest Green Rovers will trial a kit made from coffee bean waste on Saturday (Feb. 27).

This soccer shirt is made using waste coffee grounds

'Mushrooms: The Art, Design and Future of Fungi' at Somerset House invites the public to take a deeper look into the world of mushrooms and their many uses.

How mushrooms could be sustainability’s secret ingredient

India and the European Union need to sort out outstanding issues such as government procurement, labour standards, and sustainability as part of the negotiations of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-mexico-canada-to-sign-deal-finalising-new-trade-agreement-267522">Free Trade Agreements</a> (FTAs) which have been held up since 2013, European Union Ambassador to India, Ugo Astuto, said on Tuesday.

Responding to a question on as to what are the points of contention pertaining to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/economy-debate-narendra-modis-nda-versus-manmohan-singhs-upa-267271">FTA</a>, Astuto said, "There are a few. At the outset, I must say these are difficult negotiations. We have issues on tariff, we have issues to discuss on government procurement, labour standards, and stainability."

"These are part and parcel of all our Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). These are all complex issues that require thorough discussions. That is why technical conversation continues," he added.

The negotiations have been held up since 2013 due to differences on several contentious issues between the two sides.

Responding to a question on Kashmir, the envoy said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-can-rip-up-the-european-union-rule-book-johnson-tells-uk-voters-267447">European Union</a> is concerned over the situation in Kashmir and believes it is important to restore freedom of movement and normalcy in the region.

He said that India and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-blacklists-encounter-specialist-pakistan-cop-rao-anwar-for-serious-human-rights-abuse-267554">Pakistan</a> should resolve the issue through dialogue. "Our position on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-one-bullet-fired-situation-in-kashmir-normal-amit-shah-267372">Kashmir</a> hasn't changed since August. We have stressed a dialogue between India and Pakistan through diplomatic channels; means of communication should be restored in Kashmir. Our position has been consistent," he added.

India and the European Union need to sort out outstanding issues such as government procurement, labour standards, and sustainability as part of the negotiations of the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) which have been held up since 2013, European Union Ambassador to India, Ugo Astuto, said on Tuesday.

India and the European Union need to sort out outstanding issues such as government procurement, labour standards, and sustainability as part of the negotiations of the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) which have been held up since 2013, European Union Ambassador to India, Ugo Astuto, said on Tuesday. Responding to a question on as to what are the points of contention pertaining to the FTA, Astuto said, "There are a few. At the outset, I must say these are difficult negotiations. We have issues on tariff, we have issues to discuss on government procurement, labour standards, and stainability." "These are part and parcel of all our Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). These are all complex issues that require thorough discussions. That is why technical conversation continues," he added. The negotiations have been held up since 2013 due to differences on several contentious issues between the two sides. Responding to a question on Kashmir, the envoy said that the European Union is concerned over the situation in Kashmir and believes it is important to restore freedom of movement and normalcy in the region. He said that India and Pakistan should resolve the issue through dialogue. "Our position on Kashmir hasn't changed since August. We have stressed a dialogue between India and Pakistan through diplomatic channels; means of communication should be restored in Kashmir. Our position has been consistent," he added.

India, European Union need to resolve issues of labour standards, sustainability holding up FTA talks

British band Coldplay will not tour to promote their new album, but are working on how to make their gigs environmentally sustainable, lead singer Chris Martin said.

The rock group, known for songs like 'Yellow',&nbsp;'Paradise'&nbsp;and 'Viva la Vida', will release their eighth studio album 'Everyday Life'&nbsp;on Friday. The 52-minute record is made up of two halves, 'Sunrise'&nbsp;and 'Sunset'.

"We're not touring this album. We're taking time over the next year or two to work out how our tour (can not only) be sustainable but how can it be actively beneficial," Martin told British broadcaster BBC in Jordan, where Coldplay will perform two shows on Friday to mark the album's release.

"Our dream is to have a show with no single-use plastic, to have it be largely solar-powered."

Coldplay will play a one-off show at London's Natural History Museum on Monday to promote the album. All performance proceeds will go to environmental charity ClientEarth.

"This is expected to be the band’s only UK show of the 'Everyday Life' era," a press release for the show said.

Coldplay last toured globally in 2016-2017 to promote the album 'A Head Full of Dreams'.

"All of us, in every industry, have to just work out what the best way of doing our job is ... The hardest thing is the flying side of things," Martin said.

Amid growing environmental concerns from consumers and young fans, several music artists have addressed climate change in lyrics or announced plans to improve their green credentials.

Rockers The 1975 teamed up with climate activist Greta Thunberg for a track on their upcoming album in which the teenage Swedish activist warns about climate change.

"It is fantastic to see world famous artists stepping up to protect the planet," Gareth Redmond-King, head of Climate Change at the WWF conservation group, said in a statement.

"We all have a responsibility to lead by example in the face of this climate and nature crisis - inaction is not an option if we are to preserve our planet for future generations."

British band Coldplay will not tour to promote their new album, but are working on how to make their gigs environmentally sustainable, lead singer Chris Martin said.

British band Coldplay will not tour to promote their new album, but are working on how to make their gigs environmentally sustainable, lead singer Chris Martin said. The rock group, known for songs like 'Yellow', 'Paradise' and 'Viva la Vida', will release their eighth studio album 'Everyday Life' on Friday. The 52-minute record is made up of two halves, 'Sunrise' and 'Sunset'. "We're not touring this album. We're taking time over the next year or two to work out how our tour (can not only) be sustainable but how can it be actively beneficial," Martin told British broadcaster BBC in Jordan, where Coldplay will perform two shows on Friday to mark the album's release. "Our dream is to have a show with no single-use plastic, to have it be largely solar-powered." Coldplay will play a one-off show at London's Natural History Museum on Monday to promote the album. All performance proceeds will go to environmental charity ClientEarth. "This is expected to be the band’s only UK show of the 'Everyday Life' era," a press release for the show said. Coldplay last toured globally in 2016-2017 to promote the album 'A Head Full of Dreams'. "All of us, in every industry, have to just work out what the best way of doing our job is ... The hardest thing is the flying side of things," Martin said. Amid growing environmental concerns from consumers and young fans, several music artists have addressed climate change in lyrics or announced plans to improve their green credentials. Rockers The 1975 teamed up with climate activist Greta Thunberg for a track on their upcoming album in which the teenage Swedish activist warns about climate change. "It is fantastic to see world famous artists stepping up to protect the planet," Gareth Redmond-King, head of Climate Change at the WWF conservation group, said in a statement. "We all have a responsibility to lead by example in the face of this climate and nature crisis - inaction is not an option if we are to preserve our planet for future generations."

Coldplay won't tour new album, says want gigs to be 'sustainable'

Revamping global food production, retooling the financial sector, moving beyond GDP as a measure of progress and other "transformative changes" are needed to save nature and ourselves, a major UN biodiversity report is set to conclude.

Delegates from 130 nations wrap up week-long negotiations in Paris Saturday on the executive summary of a 1,800-page tome authored by 400 scientists, the first UN global assessment of the state of nature -- and its impact on humanity -- in 15 years.

The bombshell Summary for Policymakers, to be unveiled on May 6, makes for very grim reading.

Up to a million of Earth's estimated eight million species face extinction, many of them within decades, according to a draft version obtained by AFP.&nbsp;

All but seven per cent of major marine fish stocks are in decline or exploited to the limit of sustainability. At the same time, humanity dumps up to 400 million tonnes of heavy metals, toxic sludge and other waste into oceans and rivers each year.

Since 1990, Earth has lost 2.9 million hectares -- an area more than eight times the size of Germany or Vietnam -- of forests that play a critical role in absorbing record-level CO2 emissions.

The heavily negotiated text does not make explicit policy recommendations, but will serve "as a basis for redefining our objectives" ahead of a key meeting of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in China next Fall, said Yunne Jai Shin, a researcher at the Research Institute for Development in Marseilles.

But the pressure to set clear targets -- similar to the cap on global warming in the 2015 climate treaty inked in the French capital -- has sparked calls for a "Paris moment" on biodiversity.

'Harmful subsidies'

The new report details how humans are undermining Earth's capacity to produce fresh water, clean air and productive soil, to name a few "ecosystem services".

The direct causes of nature's degradation -- in order of importance -- are shrinking habitat and land-use change, hunting for food or illicit trade in body parts, climate change, pollution, and predatory or disease-carrying alien species such as rats, mosquitoes and snakes.

"There are also two big indirect drivers of biodiversity loss and climate change -- the number of people in the world and their growing ability to consume," Robert Watson, chair of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), told AFP ahead of the meeting.

The way humanity produces, distributes and consumes food -&nbsp;accounting for a third of land, 75 per cent of freshwater use and a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions -- is especially destructive, the report shows.

Fertiliser use, which degrades the soil's ability to grow plants and absorb CO2, has risen four-fold in just 13 years in Asia, and doubled worldwide since 1990.

"Feeding the world in a sustainable manner entails the transformation of food systems," the report notes.

Local food production, less demand for meat, fewer chemical inputs, use of renewable power, sustainable limits for fisheries, a sharp decline in tropical deforestation -- all are feasible and would help restore nature.

The report also spotlights "harmful subsidies" that encourage environmentally damaging fishing, agriculture, livestock raising, forestry and mining.&nbsp;

A downward spiral&nbsp;

The report cites estimates that tax havens finance about 70 per cent of vessels implicated in unregulated fishing and an equal share of the soy and beef sectors that are ravaging the Amazon.

The summary for policymakers maps out what Watson calls "several plausible futures," some inviting, others less so.

One labelled "economic optimism" sees burgeoning international trade unfettered by regulation. Population growth slows, but per capita consumption is high, leading to more climate change and pollution.&nbsp;

A "reformed markets" variant would feature more policies aimed at poverty alleviation and protecting the environment, but consumer demand remains high if more equally distributed.

"Global sustainable development" would see politicians and the public prioritise environmental issues and strict regulations. Policies and education promote low population growth, sustainable production and a concept of progress based on well-being, not just gross domestic product (GDP). People eat a lot less meat, and energy consumption declines.&nbsp;

"All variations of this archetype are beneficial for biodiversity," the underlying report says.

In a kindred world, international institutions weaken, but regional ones pick up the slack toward the same ends.

Finally, the last two scenarios -- "business-as-usual" and "regional competition" -- plunge the planet into a nightmarish, downward spiral of conflict, growing inequality and continuing degradation of nature.

Revamping global food production, retooling the financial sector, moving beyond GDP as a measure of progress and other "transformative changes" are needed to save nature and ourselves, a major UN biodiversity report is set to conclude.

Revamping global food production, retooling the financial sector, moving beyond GDP as a measure of progress and other "transformative changes" are needed to save nature and ourselves, a major UN biodiversity report is set to conclude. Delegates from 130 nations wrap up week-long negotiations in Paris Saturday on the executive summary of a 1,800-page tome authored by 400 scientists, the first UN global assessment of the state of nature -- and its impact on humanity -- in 15 years. The bombshell Summary for Policymakers, to be unveiled on May 6, makes for very grim reading. Up to a million of Earth's estimated eight million species face extinction, many of them within decades, according to a draft version obtained by AFP. All but seven per cent of major marine fish stocks are in decline or exploited to the limit of sustainability. At the same time, humanity dumps up to 400 million tonnes of heavy metals, toxic sludge and other waste into oceans and rivers each year. Since 1990, Earth has lost 2.9 million hectares -- an area more than eight times the size of Germany or Vietnam -- of forests that play a critical role in absorbing record-level CO2 emissions. The heavily negotiated text does not make explicit policy recommendations, but will serve "as a basis for redefining our objectives" ahead of a key meeting of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity in China next Fall, said Yunne Jai Shin, a researcher at the Research Institute for Development in Marseilles. But the pressure to set clear targets -- similar to the cap on global warming in the 2015 climate treaty inked in the French capital -- has sparked calls for a "Paris moment" on biodiversity. 'Harmful subsidies' The new report details how humans are undermining Earth's capacity to produce fresh water, clean air and productive soil, to name a few "ecosystem services". The direct causes of nature's degradation -- in order of importance -- are shrinking habitat and land-use change, hunting for food or illicit trade in body parts, climate change, pollution, and predatory or disease-carrying alien species such as rats, mosquitoes and snakes. "There are also two big indirect drivers of biodiversity loss and climate change -- the number of people in the world and their growing ability to consume," Robert Watson, chair of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), told AFP ahead of the meeting. The way humanity produces, distributes and consumes food - accounting for a third of land, 75 per cent of freshwater use and a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions -- is especially destructive, the report shows. Fertiliser use, which degrades the soil's ability to grow plants and absorb CO2, has risen four-fold in just 13 years in Asia, and doubled worldwide since 1990. "Feeding the world in a sustainable manner entails the transformation of food systems," the report notes. Local food production, less demand for meat, fewer chemical inputs, use of renewable power, sustainable limits for fisheries, a sharp decline in tropical deforestation -- all are feasible and would help restore nature. The report also spotlights "harmful subsidies" that encourage environmentally damaging fishing, agriculture, livestock raising, forestry and mining. A downward spiral The report cites estimates that tax havens finance about 70 per cent of vessels implicated in unregulated fishing and an equal share of the soy and beef sectors that are ravaging the Amazon. The summary for policymakers maps out what Watson calls "several plausible futures," some inviting, others less so. One labelled "economic optimism" sees burgeoning international trade unfettered by regulation. Population growth slows, but per capita consumption is high, leading to more climate change and pollution. A "reformed markets" variant would feature more policies aimed at poverty alleviation and protecting the environment, but consumer demand remains high if more equally distributed. "Global sustainable development" would see politicians and the public prioritise environmental issues and strict regulations. Policies and education promote low population growth, sustainable production and a concept of progress based on well-being, not just gross domestic product (GDP). People eat a lot less meat, and energy consumption declines. "All variations of this archetype are beneficial for biodiversity," the underlying report says. In a kindred world, international institutions weaken, but regional ones pick up the slack toward the same ends. Finally, the last two scenarios -- "business-as-usual" and "regional competition" -- plunge the planet into a nightmarish, downward spiral of conflict, growing inequality and continuing degradation of nature.

'Move beyond GDP,' suggests UN report to fix nature and avoid human misery

India Centre Foundation (ICF), a nonprofit and non-governmental organisation, which has been working for over two decades towards nation&#39;s socio-economic development, brings to India for the first-time ever, The Global Partnership Summit (GPS) 2017 which is scheduled to be held at Aerocity, New Delhi from December 11 to 14, 2017.

The GPS will focus on clean energy, healthcare, infrastructure and logistics, energy, tourism, art and culture, agro-economy, banking and finance, education and skill development, and information communication technology. The visionary behind the initiative is Vibhav Kant Upadhyay who has been at the forefront of many key development initiatives in the past two decades. He is also the Founder Chairman, GPS which is evolved from the successful - India-Japan Global Partnership (IJGP) Initiative.

Inspired by Japan&#39;s process of successful nation-building, India Center Foundation believes, a global partnership between India and Japan is not only of mutual national interests but will contribute to the rest of the world. GPS 2017, will witness the presence of 3000 delegates and over 200 speakers participating, including the prominent business leader, policymakers, think tanks, social change makers, youth leaders, influencers, and academicians.

This year&#39;s summit is expected to lay the foundation for a long-term mutually beneficial dialogue on key issues affecting the world as a whole. The event GPS 2017 is lead by Global Chairman Toshihiro Nikai, Founder Chairman, Vibhav Kant Upadhyay with co-chairmen Dr. Subhash Chandra and Dr. Subramaniam Swamy.

Eminent dignitaries and policy makers from India, speaking at the event include Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highway, Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Minister at Ministry of Science and Technology, Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Earth Sciences, J. P. Nadda, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Alphons Joseph, Minister of Tourism, to name a few.

Other distinguished Indian and Global leaders, speaking at the event include Masayoshi Son, Founder, Chairman and CEO, SoftBank Group Corp, Shervin Pishevar, Co-founder and Executive Chairman, Hyperloop One, Manoj Kohli, Chairman, Softbank Energy, James Scott Mccallum, Former Governor, Wisconsin, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living, Amitabh Kant, CEO &amp; CEO, NITI Aayog, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, children&#39;s rights activist and Founder of Kailash Satyarthi Children&#39;s Foundation, Bhavish Aggarwal, Founder and CEO, Ola Cabs, Daisaku Kadokawa, Mayor, Kyoto City, Japan, to name a few, will also speak at the event.

There will be around 40 sessions and about 10 plenaries during the summit that will be focused towards devising efficient and sustainable measures for achieving the set goals.

The global Partnership Summit is going to be held in India for the first time. With 40 sessions and 10 plenary, the summit will focus on efficient and sustainable measures

India Centre Foundation (ICF), a nonprofit and non-governmental organisation, which has been working for over two decades towards nation's socio-economic development, brings to India for the first-time ever, The Global Partnership Summit (GPS) 2017 which is scheduled to be held at Aerocity, New Delhi from December 11 to 14, 2017. The GPS will focus on clean energy, healthcare, infrastructure and logistics, energy, tourism, art and culture, agro-economy, banking and finance, education and skill development, and information communication technology. The visionary behind the initiative is Vibhav Kant Upadhyay who has been at the forefront of many key development initiatives in the past two decades. He is also the Founder Chairman, GPS which is evolved from the successful - India-Japan Global Partnership (IJGP) Initiative. Inspired by Japan's process of successful nation-building, India Center Foundation believes, a global partnership between India and Japan is not only of mutual national interests but will contribute to the rest of the world. GPS 2017, will witness the presence of 3000 delegates and over 200 speakers participating, including the prominent business leader, policymakers, think tanks, social change makers, youth leaders, influencers, and academicians. This year's summit is expected to lay the foundation for a long-term mutually beneficial dialogue on key issues affecting the world as a whole. The event GPS 2017 is lead by Global Chairman Toshihiro Nikai, Founder Chairman, Vibhav Kant Upadhyay with co-chairmen Dr. Subhash Chandra and Dr. Subramaniam Swamy. Eminent dignitaries and policy makers from India, speaking at the event include Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highway, Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Minister at Ministry of Science and Technology, Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Earth Sciences, J. P. Nadda, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Alphons Joseph, Minister of Tourism, to name a few. Other distinguished Indian and Global leaders, speaking at the event include Masayoshi Son, Founder, Chairman and CEO, SoftBank Group Corp, Shervin Pishevar, Co-founder and Executive Chairman, Hyperloop One, Manoj Kohli, Chairman, Softbank Energy, James Scott Mccallum, Former Governor, Wisconsin, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living, Amitabh Kant, CEO & CEO, NITI Aayog, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, children's rights activist and Founder of Kailash Satyarthi Children's Foundation, Bhavish Aggarwal, Founder and CEO, Ola Cabs, Daisaku Kadokawa, Mayor, Kyoto City, Japan, to name a few, will also speak at the event. There will be around 40 sessions and about 10 plenaries during the summit that will be focused towards devising efficient and sustainable measures for achieving the set goals.

First-time ever in India: The Global Partnership Summit 2017

sustainability

Sustainability, News on Sustainability, stories on Sustainability, articles on Sustainability, Sustainability stories at Wion, Sustainability news, Sustainability latest news